'He can count on us:' German SPD minister hails Macron's EU speech

"Emmanuel Macron today held a courageous, a passionate plea against nationalism and for Europe - a Europe which he wants to reform, strengthen and unite with our help," Gabriel said.

"Right now, we need to seize this opportunity for Franco-German initiatives to make Europe more democratic, involve the citizens and make it fit for the future," Gabriel said.

Gabriel said a joint determination by EU member states was needed to resolve problems in Europe, adding: "He can count on us."

(Reporting by Michael Nienaber; Editing by Janet Lawrence)