Macron: Meritxell Day celebrates openness and European cooperation
Emmanuel Macron highlights European solidarity, the contribution of immigrant communities and the opportunities offered by Andorra’s Association Agreement with the EU
French Co-Prince Emmanuel Macron has addressed the people of Andorra and the country’s residents on the occasion of Meritxell Day, describing the national celebration as a symbol of openness, solidarity and European cooperation.
Macron recalled that the feast of Our Lady of Meritxell, Patron Saint of the Valleys of Andorra, is an important moment for the country to come together at the end of the summer and renew the collective bond that unites its population.
European solidarity in times of crisis
The French Co-Prince said the summer of 2026 had once again shown that Europe’s strength lies in mutual assistance. Faced with wildfires and climate-related disasters of exceptional intensity, European countries mobilised together and demonstrated that solidarity is not an abstract principle, but an active mechanism capable of rapidly deploying human and material resources.
Macron also praised Andorra’s contribution through the active involvement of its civil protection teams and the Andorran Red Cross.
“Commitment is not measured by the size of a state, but by the sincerity of its participation and the ties it builds with its European partners.”
However, he warned that this solidarity cannot continue to rely on improvised responses. Future climate, social and health emergencies will require stronger mechanisms, better coordination and greater participation from all European countries.
Europe as Andorra’s natural horizon
Macron reaffirmed his support for closer relations between Andorra and the European Union, stating that “Europe remains our natural horizon” and provides the framework in which the country can develop its projects and shape the future of younger generations.
His message comes as the Association Agreement is expected to be signed by the EU member states, the European Commission and Andorra. The agreement will subsequently be put to a referendum before being submitted to the General Council for ratification.
The French Co-Prince acknowledged concerns about the possible consequences of the agreement, particularly regarding border controls and the free movement of people. Nevertheless, he stressed that the text preserves Andorra’s migration model.
“Andorra has secured an unparalleled asymmetric solution: Andorrans will be able to live, work, study or retire in any EU member state without restrictions, while Andorra will retain its quota and control system, including for EU nationals.”
According to Macron, this arrangement will allow the Principality to maintain controlled population growth while combining economic integration with national sovereignty.
Recognition of immigrant communities
Macron also expressed his gratitude to the immigrant communities that have long been established in Andorra, as well as to the seasonal workers expected to arrive ahead of the coming winter.
He underlined that these residents and workers contribute their labour, talent and enthusiasm, playing an essential role in Andorra’s economic growth and social vitality.
The French Co-Prince concluded his message by calling on the country to continue defending fraternity, openness and cooperation throughout the year.
“Together with the Episcopal Co-Prince, I wish you all a very happy Meritxell Day and a successful start to the new academic and working year,” Macron said.
