Invited by the European Movement of Gard and the House of Europe, Nicolas Rességuier, former director of the Bank of France in Nîmes, analyzed the evolution of relations between Europe and the United States.
Between trade war, economic sovereignty, and digital euro, an enlightening perspective from the capital of Gard.
A conference in Nîmes on a burning topic
It was in Nîmes on Thursday, March 26 that Nicolas Rességuier chose to discuss a current international topic: the relations between Europe and the United States under the presidency of Donald Trump.
In front of an attentive audience, the former local director of the Bank of France made a clear assessment: the United States are currently pursuing a protectionist policy, marked by a significant increase in tariffs. A strategy that he sees as a real trade war.
An Europe that must defend its interests
Facing this situation, Europe has no shortage of assets. On the commercial level, it shows a significant surplus with the United States, estimated at nearly 100 billion euros.
For Nicolas Rességuier, European priorities are multiple: defense, security, competitiveness, and environment. Despite some political hesitations, the European Union remains capable of influencing the international stage.
“We must not give up,” he insisted, reminding that Europe has the necessary means to respond to external pressures.
Do not confuse Trump and the United States
Another strong message delivered at this meeting: Donald Trump does not represent America alone. Transatlantic relations remain strong, but they evolve in a global context marked by the rise of China.
This reorganization pushes Europe to accelerate its transformation and strengthen its strategic autonomy.
The digital euro in sight
Among the major issues discussed by the current director of the Bank of France: the future of currency. The European Central Bank is currently working on the digital euro project.
A test phase could start as early as 2027, before a gradual launch planned from 2029. The goal is to modernize payments while ensuring European monetary sovereignty.
Meanwhile, the use of cash is declining: in France, they currently represent about half of in-store payments, down from over two-thirds less than ten years ago. In the eurozone, they now represent only 40%.
A global debate seen from Gard
This conference organized in Nîmes illustrates the importance of international issues, even at the local level. Trade, geopolitics, currency: topics that directly impact European citizens.
Through this intervention, Nicolas Rességuier wanted to deliver an optimistic message: in the face of tensions and ongoing changes, Europe has the cards in hand to build its future.
Intervention by Patrick Saulnier, director of the Bank of France
