In his 2027 budget bill, Sébastien Lecornu, the French minister in charge of the European Union, has proposed reducing the budget allocated to the support of disadvantaged or emerging countries by 1.85 billion euros. This cut has raised questions about the alignment between policy actions and public statements, especially in light of President Emmanuel Macron's recent speeches emphasizing the importance of multilateralism — a foreign policy approach that relies on cooperation among multiple countries. The proposed reduction affects funding for development aid and international cooperation programs, which France has traditionally used to support poorer nations and promote global stability. Critics argue that such a move contradicts France's commitment to addressing global challenges through collective action. The cuts could impact various initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure in developing regions. Macron has often spoken about the need for stronger international partnerships to tackle issues such as climate change, global health, and economic inequality. His administration has positioned France as a leader in multilateral efforts, including within the United Nations and the European Union. However, the budget proposal suggests a shift in priorities that may not fully align with these public commitments. The reduction has sparked discussions among policymakers and international partners about the implications for France's role in global affairs. Some analysts suggest that the budget changes may reflect internal political considerations or economic constraints, but they also highlight the potential challenges for France's influence on the world stage. As the budget bill moves through the legislative process, it remains to be seen how it will affect France's engagement in international development and cooperation efforts.