观点丨Macron's “Third Way” Theory: Seeking a Strategic Breakthrough in the Indo-Pacific Region
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Macron's "Third Way" bets France can carve out an independent Indo-Pacific role — neither Washington's ally nor Beijing's partner. Can middle-power autonomy survive great-power gravity?
Strategic AutonomyBalance of PowerMultipolarityGame Theory
Theory Briefing
- Macron's doctrine positions France as a distinct Indo-Pacific actor, refusing alignment with either the US or China.
- The "Third Way" theory argues middle powers can exploit great-power rivalry to expand their own strategic influence.
- France's overseas territories in the Pacific give Macron a geographic claim to the region that most European leaders lack.
- The approach tests whether a single European state can sustain an independent foreign policy posture against superpower pressure.