The French Ministry of Foreign Trade has strongly condemned what it described as “American interference” after the U.S. Embassy in Paris sent letters to several French companies urging them to review their internal policies on discrimination. In a statement released to AFP, the Ministry emphasized that such actions, along with threats of unjustified tariffs, were “unacceptable.”
The French government expressed its firm stance, highlighting that the interference by the U.S. in French corporate inclusion policies was a violation of sovereignty. The Ministry of Foreign Trade further stated that France, alongside its European allies, would continue to defend not only its businesses and consumers but also its core values.
The controversy stems from the U.S. Embassy’s initiative, which encouraged French companies to enhance their efforts to fight discrimination, a message that was seen by some as an overstep of diplomatic boundaries. While the objective of addressing discrimination within the workplace is widely recognized, the manner in which the U.S. Embassy approached the issue has sparked tensions, particularly as the French government views it as an intrusion into national affairs.
This episode reflects broader international debates over corporate responsibility and the role of governments in shaping corporate policies related to social issues. The French Ministry’s response underscores a commitment to uphold national sovereignty, especially in matters pertaining to corporate governance and social inclusion.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether diplomatic channels will provide a resolution or if this tension will escalate, potentially affecting broader economic and trade relations between France and the United States.