Franco-German cooperation is clearly set out in joint declarations. It often helps towards finding compromises which support the progressive integration of the European Union. However, real achievements are lacking, particularly in terms of a more cooperative industrial policy. To do this it seems that new impetus is necessary, targeting trust/confidence and support in a two-pronged movement: top-down – i.e. on the part of the State in the shape of inter-ministerial action and bottom-up i.e. on the part of the regions and economic players.