Emmanuel Macron used the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York to push for stronger international cooperation as wars, energy disruptions and strategic rivalries reshape relations among major powers.
The French president was in New York from September 21 to September 23, 2026, for a series of meetings focused on Ukraine, the Middle East, ocean protection and the future of multilateral diplomacy.
His appearance came days after Macron met Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, where the two leaders outlined plans to deepen Canada-France cooperation in defence, energy, space and other strategic sectors.
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Emmanuel Macron puts Ukraine and the Middle East at the centre of talks
The Élysée said Macron’s UN agenda centred on building a multilateral response to major international crises with countries that share France’s commitment to democracy, international law and national sovereignty.
Ukraine and the Middle East were given particular attention because instability in both regions is affecting global security and putting pressure on oil and natural-gas markets.
During his New York visit, Macron met with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. According to the Élysée, the two leaders agreed to work together to ease pressure on energy markets and support efforts to establish a moratorium on attacks against energy infrastructure and Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.
Macron also met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and reaffirmed France’s support for Ukraine, particularly as Russian strikes continue to threaten energy facilities.
France has remained one of the main European supporters of Ukraine and has worked with European partners to strengthen military, diplomatic and economic backing for Kyiv.
France and Canada deepen strategic cooperation
Macron’s UN visit followed his September 20 meeting with Carney in Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, the French archipelago off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador.
The meeting was the first official visit by a Canadian prime minister to the territory. It highlighted the unusual position of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon as a French foothold in North America and a direct link between France and Atlantic Canada.
Canada and France agreed to explore common space infrastructure, including launch systems and ground-based reception and control facilities. Their defence ministries, space agencies and industries were directed to develop further cooperation.
The discussions also advanced a broader proposal for an “alliance of the future” between Canada and the European Union. The concept would give Canada a closer strategic relationship with the EU without requiring it to become a full member.
For Ottawa, the initiative could create additional channels for cooperation on defence, critical minerals, energy, technology and supply-chain resilience. For France, it supports a wider effort to build partnerships that reduce dependence on any single major power.
Canada, France and the United Kingdom had already announced coordinated support for a two-state solution involving Israel and Palestine. The three countries said in September that they would pursue additional measures related to Israeli settlements and co-chair a meeting at the UN General Assembly.
Ocean protection remains part of France’s diplomatic agenda
Macron also used his New York schedule to emphasize ocean protection and the concerns of small island states.
The French president was presented with a Rising Nations Leader Award recognizing France’s work on ocean protection and climate policy. He said the agenda was connected not only to biodiversity and emissions but also to the security and survival of vulnerable island nations.
France has promoted international cooperation on ocean governance and recently highlighted the importance of the agreement protecting areas of the high seas. Macron’s government has linked the issue to wider questions of climate justice, energy security and the ability of smaller states to influence global decisions.
What happens next for Canada and France
The Canada-France relationship is expected to remain focused on practical projects rather than only political declarations.
Officials are expected to examine potential cooperation on satellite systems, aerospace, defence procurement, energy supplies, critical minerals and advanced technologies. Both governments have also emphasized the role of Atlantic Canada and Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon in strengthening commercial and people-to-people ties.
The proposed Canada-EU relationship will require further discussions with European institutions and member states. It is not the same as EU membership, and neither Canada nor France has announced a completed legal framework for associate status.
Macron’s UN appearance also underlined the limits of diplomacy during active conflicts. Cooperation with Washington on Ukraine and energy markets remains important, while France continues to argue that European countries must develop greater capacity to act independently.
For Canada, the French outreach offers another avenue for cooperation as Ottawa seeks stronger ties with Europe and other partners. The immediate focus will be whether the agreements announced in September produce concrete projects and coordinated positions in the months ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Emmanuel Macron in New York in September 2026?
Macron travelled to New York from September 21 to September 23 to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly and hold meetings on Ukraine, the Middle East, energy and global cooperation.
What did Macron and Donald Trump discuss?
The two presidents discussed Ukraine, the Middle East and the effects of international conflicts on energy markets. They also agreed to support efforts aimed at protecting energy and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine.
What did Macron and Mark Carney discuss?
They discussed closer Canada-France cooperation in defence, space, energy and technology, including possible joint space infrastructure and a broader Canada-European Union strategic partnership.
Would Canada become a member of the European Union?
No. The proposal discussed by Canada and European partners concerns a possible associate relationship, not full EU membership.
Why is Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon important to Canada-France relations?
The French archipelago is located near Newfoundland and Labrador, making it a direct geographic and economic link between France and Atlantic Canada.
Fact-Checked: Key dates, meetings and cooperation proposals were checked against official Élysée and Government of Canada information.
Disclaimer: The proposed Canada-EU associate relationship remains subject to further negotiations and should not be treated as a finalized agreement.