Introduction

The origin and development of the concept of "strategic autonomy" were introduced, emphasizing the importance of the EU pursuing autonomy in areas such as security, defense, and foreign affairs. Against the backdrop of shifting international political dynamics and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the EU has accelerated its push for "strategic autonomy" through initiatives like the "Strategic Compass," enhancing internal coordination and external actions. In higher education and scientific research, the EU encourages member states to strengthen technological capabilities and narrow the gap with global powers. As a core EU member, France actively participates in internal governance, promotes higher education and scientific development agendas, reforms its national higher education system, and leverages Europe's geopolitical advantages to advance cutting-edge technology and large-scale scientific projects.

I. Reforms in French Higher Education Under the European Strategic Autonomy Framework

This section discusses France's reforms in higher education and research under the European strategic autonomy framework. France actively engages in building the "European Higher Education Area," promoting academic exchange and research collaboration through the Sorbonne Declaration and the Bologna Process to enhance the international competitiveness of Europe's education market. The European Commission further proposed the "European Education Area" initiative, aiming to achieve borderless learning and research across Europe. French President Emmanuel Macron introduced the "European Universities" concept, planning to establish a multinational university network to foster educational innovation and research. The European Commission supports the "European Universities" program, reviewing joint degree procedures and providing electronic student cards. The French government plans to offer additional support to higher education institutions participating in "European Universities." EU funding for "European Universities" totals €287 million. During France's EU Council presidency, "European Universities" became a core higher education initiative, strengthening synergies between the "European Education Area" and the "European Research Area." The French government launched the "Excellence University Initiative" to consolidate resources and elevate international reputation and competitiveness. Institutions like Paris Sciences et Lettres University and Université Paris Cité have enhanced research impact through mergers and interdisciplinary studies.

II. France’s Research Policies Under the European Strategic Autonomy Framework

Amid escalating external crises, the EU reinforces strategic autonomy and security, defining its scope through the "Global Strategy for Foreign and Security Policy," covering multiple domains. By setting regional standards and regulations, the EU invests in technological strength to shape secure and resilient industrial and supply chains. Examples include the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), new EU dual-use export controls, and funding programs like Horizon Europe, driving digital and green transitions. As a leading force in the EU's "strategic autonomy," France actively contributes to shaping the EU’s technological autonomy agenda and implements related national plans. France’s 21st-century research strategies include the "Investments for the Future Program," "New Industrial France," and the "France 2030" plan, emphasizing investments in critical fields and core technologies to boost economic development. The "France 2030" plan allocates €30 billion over five years to enhance industrial competitiveness and transform key sectors. It outlines three development directions and ten goals, spanning nuclear energy, renewable energy, industrial decarbonization, health food, biomedicine, cultural innovation, space, and deep-sea exploration. Under this framework, France launched the "Electronics 2030" plan to support the semiconductor industry and a strategy to accelerate 5G and future communication networks, positioning France at the forefront of next-generation technologies.

Conclusion

The section highlights the significance of EU strategic autonomy for France, France’s pivotal role in advancing it, and its progress and challenges in higher education and research. France aligns strategic autonomy with EU integration goals, leveraging policy "shuttle diplomacy" to exert influence, especially post-Brexit. France has made notable strides in higher education integration (e.g., Bologna Process, European Universities, Erasmus+) and research autonomy. However, challenges remain, such as disparities among EU members and external uncertainties. Within this framework, China should strengthen collaboration with France and the EU in education and research, particularly on global issues, to jointly advance multilateralism.

` and `

` are preserved as per the original format. The translation adheres to the paragraph structure without external commentary.)