Macron was recently in India as the Chief Guest at the 75th Republic Day. But we never had the opportunity to hear him speak on issues of common interest. We also missed out totally on the French First Lady Brigitte Marie-Claude Macron, who perhaps did not accompany the French President on his India tour. Or did she? At least, this columnist is not able to verify this from available information on the internet. When Macron fell in love with his drama teacher, he was 15 and she was 39. When Macron became the President, he was 39, and the youngest President in the history or France. Their unusual personal life is as much of interest as the leadership quality of Macron.

But thanks to what we are, we could never get the French President in a Q&A session, where some of these details could be further unraveled. While we all human beings are equal and shaped by our individual circumstances, our actions represent what we are finally. More than the individuals, it’s their action and achievements that matter. Sometimes, failings too make you great. Let’s remember Mirza Ghalib who was both drunkard and bankrupt. But what he wrote is still recited and relished.

At the Lund University Q&A session Macron acknowledged the significant changes looming on the horizon, citing upcoming elections across Europe and notably, the US presidential election. He cautioned against vulnerabilities like manipulated elections and rising disinformation, particularly through social media. Russia's role in destabilizing the continent, through both the war in Ukraine and cyberwarfare, was highlighted as a major concern. He also expressed worries about the growing disregard for the rule of law in some countries, emphasizing its fundamental importance to a functioning democracy.

Founded in 1666, Lund University boasts over 45,000 students and thrives on understanding, explaining, and improving our world. Renowned for its diverse course offerings and cross-disciplinary research, it attracts students and partners from 75 countries. With world-leading facilities like MAX IV and the upcoming ESS, Lund fosters innovations in materials, life sciences, and more. Its new Science Village further cements its position as a global hub for research, education, and progress. Immerse yourself in a vibrant academic community striving to shape a better future.

Lund University's innovative spirit shines through its centuries-long legacy. From medical breakthroughs like ultrasound and the artificial kidney to modern conveniences like Bluetooth and water-saving showers, their discoveries touch diverse aspects of our lives. Beyond technology, they've revolutionized healthcare with dopamine research for Parkinson's and popularized wellness practices like Swedish massage. Whether it's promoting gut health with Proviva yogurt or pioneering electric roads, Lund's innovations consistently seek to improve our world, solidifying their place as a global leader in impactful research and development.

When questioned about the EU's ability to compete with other models, particularly in innovation and technology, Macron remained optimistic. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the EU's 27-member structure compared to more unified competitors like the US and China. However, he urged for increased investment, faster synchronization, and financial commitment to avoid dependence on these powers. He stressed the crucial role of universities, startups, and companies in achieving this technological prowess.

The war in Ukraine dominated the student inquiries, eliciting strong condemnation from Macron towards Russia's actions. He emphasized the EU's vital role in supporting Ukraine and preventing a Russian victory. He acknowledged the ongoing efforts in providing weapons and financial aid, urging further escalation of this support. He also welcomed Ukraine's initiation of EU membership negotiations, viewing it as a positive step.

On a lighter note, when asked about his ideal guest for a future Studentafton event, Macron surprised everyone by naming Swedish Physics Nobel Prize winner Anne L-Huillier. He lauded her as a symbol of the Swedish-French cooperation and praised her intellectual contributions to the research community.

Meanwhile, in a pathbreaking research at Lund University, researchers have identified 13 new biomarkers that significantly improve the prediction of heart disease risk among diabetics. This breakthrough, born from analyzing thousands of studies, could lead to better risk assessment and management for diabetics, who are twice as likely to develop heart problems. One particularly promising marker, NT-proBNP, already used for heart failure, showed a strong link to heart disease risk in diabetic patients. While further testing is needed, these findings offer hope for more personalized medicine and potentially changing the standard of care for diabetic heart health. (IPA Service)