Bridging Continents: Roland Lescure on France-U.S. Trade, Innovation, and the Future

French and American business leaders gathered for an inspiring morning with Roland Lescure, bridging continents and sparking dialogue on trade, innovation, and the future of transatlantic collaboration.

Written by Fiona Dumas, published on September 9, 2025

Roland Lescure speaking during the France-U.S. Industry & Trade breakfast at La Belle French Bakery in Broomfield, Wednesday, August 27, 2025. © Fiona Dumas

On the morning of Wednesday, August 27, the Rocky Mountain French-American Chamber of Commerce welcomed Mr. Roland Lescure, Member of the National Assembly for the First Constituency of French Residents Overseas and Vice President of the National Assembly, for a special breakfast at La Belle French Bakery in Broomfield, Colorado. The event offered a rare opportunity for local and international French communities to discuss the future of transatlantic industry, trade, and innovation.

During a lively Q&A session, Mr. Lescure shared insights on the French community in North America, representing approximately 260,000 French citizens in the U.S. and 120,000 in Canada, far exceeding the usual consular representation.  In Colorado alone, about 3,000 French families are officially registered with the consulate, but the reality is closer to 5,000 French citizens living in the state, many of whom are not yet registered, despite strong encouragement to do so. A vibrant and growing community that reflects the state’s international dynamism. He emphasized the strength and potential of French businesses operating in the U.S., highlighting sectors such as aeronautics and the transformative opportunities offered by artificial intelligence, with a clear message: responsible and innovative use of technology is key to economic growth.

Reflecting on U.S. economic practices, Mr. Lescure noted that America’s historic prosperity stems from its ability to produce much of what it consumes. For French companies in the U.S., this presents opportunities to leverage local manufacturing and existing industries, ensuring resilience in a rapidly changing global market.

Political perspectives also featured prominently in the discussion. Mr. Lescure underscored the importance of upcoming elections in France, where voters are focused on immediate, tangible issues like taxes, education, and inflation. He stressed the need to provide hope while upholding democratic values in a complex and evolving political landscape.

The conversation concluded with a reflection on technology and society. Mr. Lescure addressed AI’s societal impact, including potential gender biases and the regulation of social networks, referencing Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt as a resource for understanding how to guide and protect younger generations in a digital age.

The breakfast was more than a discussion, it was a gathering of minds, bridging continents and perspectives. This morning reminded us that innovation, dialogue, and collaboration are not just words, they are the bridges connecting France and the U.S. for a stronger, shared future.

Fiona Dumas.

Guests engaging in the Q&A session with Roland Lescure at the RMFACC breakfast in Broomfield. © Fiona Dumas