Sarkozy wants 'protective EU' to offset globalisation[fr][de] 

Speaking  on 21 February in Strasbourg, the conservative candidate noted that, for many, Europe had become "a menace rather than a promise" in the face of globalisation, saying that the French had rejected the EU Constitution because they had "the impression that Europe was not protecting them anymore" and was making them "not actors but victims of globalisation".

Sarkozy, a leader in opinion polls ahead of the presidential elections in April-May, gave his assurance that "France needs Europe" because it is "the only force capable of counterbalancing" globalisation and "protect[ing] against the abuse of competitors and against Asian dumping".

"I dare to say it: being European is to have a preference for Europe," Sarkozy said. "I believe in free trade but in free trade that is controlled, regulated, where the state intervenes to compensate against social and ecological dumping."

Sarkozy then repeated earlier attacks on the European Central Bank (ECB), saying that protection should also apply within the EU's borders. The ambition of all Europeans, he said, "should be to redefine the principles and the rules of economic and monetary union by carving them in a humanist and social dimension that is so dearly lacking in Europe".

"Priority must now be given to growth, to jobs, to industrial strategy, and let us say it straight, to the protection of our interests…Because no one will make Europe be liked if it is perceived as…a cause of regression and not progress."

Sarkozy also repeated his earlier stance against Turkey joining the EU. "Turkey, which is not a European country, does not have its position inside the European Union," he said.