Ladies and gentlemen,

First of all, I want to tell you my pleasure and honour to be with you tonight.

Before developing my remarks, in French, I would like to let you in on a secret. Every time I speak in Molière’s language, my boys tell me ‘Mom, your accent is horrible…’.

So, as Churchill said on Place Kleber in Strasbourg in 1950, let me warn you: “Beware, I will speak in French”.

But rest assured, the beauty of this place, the history of the Sorbonne have not affected me to the extent that I could presume to be that British and European statesman.

We differ on several points…

However, as in 1950, we are at a crossroads, and unlike in the aftermath of the Second World War, where hope for a better future prevailed, we are facing multiple perils.

That is why I am honoured to be able to share these words here, with you.

And before developing my thoughts, let me thank the Sorbonne for welcoming me.

And thank the Grand Continent magazine, who offered to…