Bruno Retailleau, the candidate of the Republicans party in the French presidential election, announced that the country "must definitely" reduce its financial contribution to the EU budget. He raised this issue on the sidelines of a competitiveness summit and emphasized support for "frugal" countries seeking a smaller budget for the EU.
Criticism of Emmanuel Macron
Retailleau continued his criticisms of Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, stating that Macron is seeking to approve the EU budget by the end of this year. He described Macron's action as "a problem in form and democracy" and questioned how a president without a majority in the National Assembly can lock in a fundamental budget project that will extend beyond his presidency.
Support for Real Tariffs on Chinese Imports
Retailleau also responded to a question about a proposal for imposing real tariffs on Chinese imports, stating that he "definitely" supports such actions. He explained that in conditions where trade laws are unfair, measures must be taken to compensate for that. He also criticized China, stating that the country keeps its currency undervalued, subsidizes its industry, and steals many of France's achievements.
New Proposals for Artificial Intelligence and Infrastructure
The head of the Republicans party also presented some of his proposals for simplifying regulations in the field of artificial intelligence. He called for a three-year exemption from data protection laws (GDPR) to facilitate the launch of certain AI services. Retailleau also emphasized the need for government guidance in digital infrastructure and called for prioritizing the connection of data centers to the power grid and storing sensitive data on local servers.
He concluded by suggesting that a "return plan" be implemented to attract French talents in the field of artificial intelligence who are working abroad, by offering tax exemptions.
