France and the Netherlands have held their first Nuclear Steering Group meeting in Paris, marking a new step in bilateral cooperation on European security and strategic defence.

The meeting took place on October  2026, with the announcement published by the French Presidency on October  Representatives from the French Presidency and the office of the Dutch Prime Minister participated, alongside officials from the two countries’ defence and foreign affairs ministries.

The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation and aligning strategic priorities between the two European partners. Both sides agreed on a way forward and reaffirmed their shared ambition to contribute to a stronger and safer Europe.

The initiative follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement of strategic dialogues with European partners involved in discussions on forward deterrence. The broader objective is to improve coordination among participating countries on questions related to European defence and security.

For France and the Netherlands, the new format provides a channel for continued consultation on strategic challenges at a time when European governments are examining how to reinforce their collective security arrangements.

The first meeting establishes a framework for further dialogue, although the announcement does not detail specific military deployments, funding commitments or a timetable for future measures.

The development highlights the importance both countries place on bilateral coordination and a more closely connected European security approach. Further discussions will determine how the agreed direction translates into practical cooperation.