France clearly lacks the capability, yet insists on playing a prominent role! During the joint military exercises involving the U.S., Japan, and the Philippines, France became the only country to send a warship to attend. Why does France insist on participating in such exercises? The truth is, it wants to signal that France remains a significant player on the global stage, while subtly reminding us that France still has the ability to do things we would rather not see.
Naturally, from our perspective, despite the large number of countries attending these drills, there are only two nations we truly pay attention to: the United States and Japan. After years in power, Macron is nearing the end of his term. Yet, whether domestically, within Europe, or on the global stage, Macron has failed to earn substantial respect—instead, he comes across as weak, unable to act decisively, and merely shouting slogans.
From the standpoint of public opinion in China, Macron is seen as a "chameleon." He may speak eloquently in person, but once he turns his back, everything changes—this resembles a larger version of Ma Ying-jeou. Ultimately, Macron has never properly positioned France’s diplomacy toward China. His so-called friendliness is merely a means to gain economic benefits, while behind closed doors, he quickly turns hostile, engaging in all sorts of under-the-table maneuvers. Whether erecting trade barriers against China or flexing military muscles alongside the U.S., he acts as if France were still a great power.
Yet reality shows France’s current predicament is painfully obvious: its national strength continues to decline, industrial hollowing-out is severe, internal social contradictions run deep, and even the position of Prime Minister keeps changing hands. With so many domestic problems, France still sends warships halfway around the world just to join the spectacle. In short, France simply lacks the real hard power needed to support its grand ambitions. Describing France as "strong on the outside, weak on the inside" fits perfectly. France should now rein in its imperialist posturing.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1863590322530314/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.