A commentary in the left-of-center British daily, the Guardian, July 21 struck a salutary note of caution amid all the frenzy surrounding Barack Obama's tour of Europe. It warned that, while transatlantic relations are likely to improve under the next U.S. administration, Washington's demands on Europe will almost certainly increase -regardless of whether Obama or John McCain occupies the White House. In the words of Derek Chollet and James Goldgeier:
“Ever since the end of the cold war almost two decades ago, Europeans have been uneasy with American power. They have either feared that America would be too stingy in using its influence . . . or worried about the consequences of American “hyperpower.” . . . the next US president will give Europeans something they have long wanted, offering reassurance and establishing a great deal of goodwill.
But make no mistake: a president Obama or McCain will expect something in return. If Europeans really mean what they say about putting the transatlantic relationship on a stronger footing, they have to start thinking now about how they can help the next president get what he wants on the three toughest issues he inherits – withdrawing from Iraq, negotiating with Iran and successfully prosecuting the war in Afghanistan. That message should not get lost amid the excitement about America's presidential campaign trail extending across the Atlantic.”
There is unfortunately not much evidence that Europeans are considering these issues, as the commentary correctly recommends. On the contrary, in recent years Europeans have tended to believe that the best way to achieve transatlantic unity is for Washington to adopt European policies, rather than for Europe to move toward the United States.
‘What the next US President means for Europe’ The Guardian, July 21, 2008
This post was written by Reginald Dale, Transatlantic Media Network Director
