'France will STAY in EU!' Germans rejoice as Macron win ends threat of Brussels breakup
THRILLED Germans hailed Emmanuel Macron’s win over Marine Le Pen as a victory for the European Union, as the result means France will remain inside the bloc for the foreseeable future.
Germans relieved over Macron win as it ends EU break-up threat
Speaking to DW, Germans claimed the president-elect’s defeat of the right-wing would lead to better cooperation in Brussels.
One woman said: “We’re very happy. We were in the theater and saw later in the news with delight that Macron was the winner.
“It also means that they will stay in the EU. Relations will be better, or rather strengthened.”
While a second German added: “I’m very pleased with the outcome of the election. I consider myself European and I’d have been very worried if the right had continued to progress through Europe.
“I think there are paths that connect and they will certainly be built upon.”
One woman, however, expressed concern over the number of people who voted for the former Front National leader.
She said: “I think the positive result is relative. First breath easy, but on the other hand, a lot of people voted right-wing. Therefore there's still a lot of persuading to be done of those who support it.
“I think it’s good for Germany as it will probably mean better cooperation. And also better liaison with the EU.”
Theresa May: We must have a strong mandate like Macron did
It also means that they will stay in the EU
While another man added: “I’m happy that the election one as it did. But I expected that.
“I think the solidarity between France and Germany will be further enhanced as a result.”
On Sunday evening, Mr Macron signalled his intention to deepen Franco-German relations as he made his first phone call as the new president-elect to Angela Merkel.
The newly elected leader of France had a 10-minute conversation with the German Chancellor and promised he would visit Berlin “very quickly”.
After the conservation, Mrs Merkel’s spokesman said: “She praised him for championing a united European Union that is open to the world. The decision of French voters is, therefore, a clear commitment to Europe.”
Theresa May also spoke with the president-elect, and the PM got straight down to business by discussing Brexit, Downing Street confirmed.
A No 10 spokesperson said: “This evening the Prime Minister spoke to president-elect Macron to warmly congratulate him on his election victory.
"The Prime Minister said she looked forward to working with the new president on a range of shared issues, with the UK and France’s unique partnership providing a strong foundation for future co-operation.
“The leaders briefly discussed Brexit and the Prime Minister reiterated that the UK wants a strong partnership with a secure and prosperous EU once we leave.
“The Prime Minister and President-elect Macron looked forward to meeting and holding discussions at the upcoming Nato and G7 summits.”