French President Emmanuel Macron has called for stronger cooperation between Europe and Africa, arguing that both regions must work together to reduce dependence on external technology providers and build shared strategic autonomy in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure.
He pointed out that many contemporary technology solutions are generated in the United States or China, leaving most other countries as consumers rather than creators.
He stated that Europe and Africa share the task of investing in artificial intelligence to achieve freedom. According to him, if both areas invest together, they will become much stronger and self-sufficient.
Infrastructure and Energy as the Foundation
Macron emphasized that infrastructure is central to this ambition, particularly computing capacity.
He stressed that building AI systems requires major investment in physical and digital infrastructure, including energy systems. Without sufficient energy, he warned, it will be impossible to develop AI infrastructure or expand computing capabilities at scale.
He emphasized the need to increase energy infrastructure, particularly renewable energy and nuclear power, to promote electrification in Europe and Africa.
This would benefit both domestic and industrial use, while also allowing for the expansion of computer infrastructure and the creation of fundamental AI models and firms.
Sovereignty Through Strategic Partnerships
Linking infrastructure to sovereignty, he pointed to partnerships such as those involving Amini, Bull, and Foxconn as examples of shared sovereignty between African, European, and Taiwanese companies.
Macron described these collaborations as essential in reducing global dependencies and strengthening technological independence. He also praised efforts in payment systems, particularly a Pan-African settlement system, and noted progress in mobile payments, including contributions from companies such as Orange.
Macron raised concerns about talent development and retention. He stated that Europe, particularly France, teaches many competent persons, but they must remain and find employment locally.
He mentioned that several AI professionals who were schooled in France and worked in Silicon Valley are now returning, adding to Europe’s rising leadership in artificial intelligence and quantum technologies.
He drew comparisons to Africa, emphasizing the significance of increasing education and training in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. He emphasized relationships between the French Development Agency and universities to develop new capabilities in AI and STEM disciplines.
Expanding Education and Digital Training
Macron said these initiatives aim to ensure that trained young people remain in their countries and contribute to development.
He further announced the expansion of university partnerships between Europe and Africa and called for accelerated investment in education.
He also highlighted corporate involvement, noting initiatives such as 50 digital centers expected to train one million young Africans by 2030, describing this as a key step in building future-ready skills across the continent.
Macron stressed that these efforts aim at strengthening cooperation, sovereignty and shared long-term development across both regions.
