During a two-day state visit to Spain, French President Emmanuel Macron called for a stronger and more united Europe to address what he described as a democratic crisis and the rise of "extremes." He spoke about "democratic fatigue" across the continent, pointing to deindustrialization as a major cause. Macron argued that Europe has failed to keep its promise of an economy that allows everyone to "live better." He also mentioned the "demographic crisis" caused by aging populations, which has been somewhat offset by immigration, though this has "upset" the "consensus" of European societies. Macron highlighted a "crisis of effectiveness" in European decision-making, citing the complexity of the process and the growing influence of "counterpowers" that have created a "fascination for authoritarian regimes." He said this environment has allowed "demagogic" forces to rise, offering "much faster" but "simplistic" solutions. Macron emphasized the role of social networks and their algorithms, calling for greater control over these platforms and artificial intelligence. He aims to ban social networks for those under 15 before his term ends in May, an objective that Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also supports for those under 16. The visit began with Macron and his wife, Brigitte, being welcomed at the royal palace by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, in the presence of Sánchez. However, the evening was marked by the Spanish Senate's rejection of the Franco-Spanish friendship treaty, influenced by the right-wing opposition. Macron and Sánchez, who both came to power between 2017 and 2018, share a pro-European stance but have not shown much personal closeness. Paris is seeking support from Madrid against several countries, including Germany, which opposes a significant increase in the European budget and the use of common borrowing. Macron will meet with Sánchez on Wednesday at the Moncloa Palace after an opening event with King Felipe VI of a Franco-Spanish economic forum. Macron's visit coincided with a decline in his popularity, according to a survey published on Tuesday, which showed his approval rating at a historical low of 18%. Concerns about measures to mitigate the rise in fuel prices have contributed to this decline. Jordan Bardella, president of the National Rally (RN), denounced "the prelude to a total war" against his party following an investigation by Mediapart accusing him of antisemitic remarks. Bardella has denied the allegations and announced legal actions against the newspaper. The controversy has impacted the campaign of Marine Le Pen, the favorite in opinion polls to succeed Macron. Édouard Philippe, former prime minister and candidate for the presidential election from the party Horizons, unveiled a retirement plan proposing a gradual extension of the contribution period to 45 years and the retirement age to 65 years. The plan aims to address the financial balance of the pay-as-you-go system.