Prime Minister Babiš meets President Macron to discuss competitiveness and nuclear energy cooperation
The Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, Andrej Babiš, met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Wednesday, 11 February 2026. Talks at the Élysée Palace focused on bolstering European competitiveness—a key agenda item ahead of Thursday’s informal European Council summit in Belgium The leaders also addressed cooperation in nuclear energy, investment support, and partnerships in transport and defence. In the afternoon, the Prime Minister visited the Gustave Roussy Institute, a leading oncology centre.
The Prime Minister emphasised that Czech-French relations are excellent, describing France as a key partner. Discussions centred on strategies to bolster European competitiveness—the central theme of Thursday’s informal European Council summit at Alden Biesen Castle in Belgium. The leaders examined the removal of bureaucratic barriers within the EU single market, the integration of energy markets, and reducing dependence on raw materials. "I informed President Macron of our proposal regarding the ETS 1 emissions trading scheme. It is unacceptable to us that financial speculators should profit from the system. The European Commission projected a carbon price of €26.50 for this year, yet it has reached €90," the Prime Minister stated.
Energy and trade were also high on the agenda. "We deliberated on cooperation in nuclear energy. For us, nuclear power is an absolute priority, and we insist it holds the same standing as renewable energy sources. France can be a major ally for us in nuclear energy. Economic cooperation and investment were another vital topic. The President informed me that French companies will participate in the tender for the completion of the D35 motorway," added Prime Minister Babiš.
In the afternoon, the Prime Minister visited the Gustave Roussy Institute in the French capital, one of Europe’s leading centres for cancer research, treatment, and oncological education. He held talks with the institute's leadership on strengthening cooperation with Czech hospitals and inspected state-of-the-art screening equipment.
