Trump is extremely unpopular in France. President Emmanuel Macron has also been criticized for his “friendship” with Trump, but Macron has been willing to take this gamble.
Trump also supported Macron’s opponent is his recent election and also through the Paris climate agreement under the bus. Trump also had many disparaging remarks regarding Paris and France.
“You’re gonna have a very, very peaceful and beautiful Paris — and I’m coming back,” Trump said.
“And you’re always welcome,” Macron said.[2]
So what was Macron’s motivation
For some, even those in Macron’s inner circle, the principal motivation was a version of the ancient proverb: Keep your friends close, but keep your enemies closer.[1]
Macron’s graciousness has put France “on the map”. France is now a player on the international map.
References:
- The Washington Post, July 15, 2017, James McAuley – ‘Thank you, dear Donald’: Why Macron invited Trump to France
- NRP.org, July 14, 2017, Bill Chappell – Macron’s Strategy For Trump In Paris: Long Handshakes And Military Spectacles
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