Sir Richard Moorehead of United Kingdom Secret Intelligence Servicehighlighted the importance of the historic Franco-British alliance at a recent event. Moore emphasized intelligence collaboration between nations and how these relationships transcend generations, stating that partnerships are “the secret weapon of free nations,” especially in contemporary times.
The history of cooperation between the United Kingdom and France is not new. Since the First World War, when the first head of the MI6, Mansfield Cummingmet with Second Office to exchange information about Germany, these relations have been essential. According to Moore’s speech, reported by the media, these alliances have been tested repeatedly, beginning with the battles of Verdun and the Somme.
The historical relationship between the United Kingdom and Franceembodied by the Cordial Agreement signed 120 years ago, is seen as fundamental by Moore. In his speech he acknowledged that in times of crisis, such as during the German offensive of 1918, these alliances demonstrated their strength. Moore added that the marshal Foch He became supreme commander of the allied forces at that time, showing deep trust between the countries.
In relation to World War II, Moore recalled the words of General Charles de Gaullewho proclaimed: “France is not alone!” (France is not alone), highlighting the cooperation from London in the resistance against the Nazis.
For him MI6the union with the DGSE It is crucial not only in times of war, but in the face of contemporary threats such as terrorism and Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Moore also warned about the situation in Ukrainestating that “British, French, European and transatlantic security is in danger” if Russia achieves its objectives. According to information provided, the success of Putin in Ukraine could trigger broader global consequences, with implications for countries like China and North Korea.
The intelligence shared between SIS and the DGSE has been critical in gauging the risks in Ukraine, Moore said. Regarding the Franco-British secret war, he mentioned that the French risked their lives working on the Internet Centuries during World War II, information that helped the allies in the landing of the D-Day.
These actions, as the media reported, united “French courage and impetus” with the British ability to manage agents.
In the current geopolitical context, Moore emphasizes that the rise of a China increasingly assertive represents a challenge, and highlighted the importance of keeping lines of communication open. Despite this, he emphasized that when there is a divergence of values, the United Kingdom will respond by showing that it is “a coherent, sovereign actor committed to the rule of law,” according to the same source.
Relations between the United Kingdom and France have evolved into a commitment to collaboration in technology and modern intelligence strategies. Moore mentioned examples of cooperation during global events, such as the Paris 2024 Olympic Gameswhere the MI6 worked alongside the DGSE to guarantee the safety of the participants, as reported.
At the end of his speech, Sir Richard Moore He stressed that success is often invisible in the world of intelligence, but no less valid. The talented people MI6 hires are essential in assessing risks and designing operations, the outlet claims. He highlighted diversity as a value to reflect the societies they serve and improve effectiveness in espionage.
Moore recalled how the relationship between MI6 and the DGSE French politics has been crucial at critical moments in history, from the world wars to the current crisis in Ukraine. According to Moore, these partnerships are critical to confronting global threats such as terrorism and Russian aggression. He stressed that Franco-British cooperation has been a pillar in the fight against terrorism and in preventing the proliferation of weapons.
Moore also addressed the current situation in Ukrainewarning about the consequences of a possible success of Vladimir Putin in their invasion. According to the head of MI6, allowing Ukraine to become a vassal state would endanger European and transatlantic security. Moore emphasized that support for Ukraine is essential to maintain stability in the region and prevent other actors, such as China e Iranbecome emboldened.
In his speech, Moore emphasized the importance of alliances based on shared values, stating that these are the true “secret weapon” of democracies. He recalled how the Entente Cordiale was an example of how two nations can unite in the face of common challenges, and how this cooperation has evolved to face the threats of the 21st century.
Moore also mentioned the increasing assertiveness of China and the need to maintain a solid but vigilant relationship with the Asian country. He stressed that, while it is important to keep lines of communication open, the UK must respond in a consistent and committed manner to the rule of law when values diverge.
As Moore noted, after decades of cooperation, the strength of these deep alliances between France and the United Kingdom is evident and remains crucial to meeting the challenges of the 21st century. According to the outlet, Moore expressed that these relationships are not only tactical, but are based on trust and mutual respect, essential elements for any lasting alliance.
