Emmanuel Macron praised Europe’s “predictability” during a visit to Tokyo on Wednesday, contrasting it with countries that “could hurt you without even informing you” in an apparent swipe at Donald Trump.

The U.S. president lashed out at France on Tuesday, writing on social media that Paris had been “very unhelpful” during the war with Iran, which has since spread across the Middle East.

“I’m well aware that sometimes Europe can be seen as a continent that is slower than others,” Macron told an audience of Japanese business leaders and investors.

“But predictability has value, and we have demonstrated that over all these past years and, dare I say, even these past weeks: we are where you know we will go,” he added.

“That’s not bad, in times like these, believe me.”

Macron criticized countries that said they were “going much faster” than their allies, but warned that “you don’t know whether the day after tomorrow they will still be in that position.”

Energy crisis and cooperation

The remarks came as tensions from the ongoing conflict with Iran continue to disrupt global energy flows, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz.

Following a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Macron emphasized cooperation in the face of a “current energy crisis.”

“We share a belief in international law and in the international order based on the United Nations Charter,” he said, calling for a return to peace and freedom of navigation.

Takaichi echoed those concerns, saying both leaders agreed on ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and stabilizing supply chains.

Japan, which depends on the Middle East for most of its oil imports, has tapped strategic reserves to offset rising fuel costs since the war began.

Defense, minerals, and lighter moments

The two countries signed agreements on access to critical minerals and defense cooperation, while showcasing joint projects, including efforts to tackle space debris.

Despite the serious tone, Macron and Takaichi shared a lighthearted moment during a news conference, mimicking a “kamehameha” gesture from the popular Japanese franchise Dragon Ball.

Macron’s visit, his fourth to Japan, comes as regional tensions also rise over China, following comments by Takaichi suggesting Tokyo could intervene militarily in a Taiwan contingency.

The French president, who visited China in December, is scheduled to meet Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako on Thursday before departing for South Korea later in the day.