The French Could Help EU-Alliance Communication

Leo Michel, Institute for National Strategic Studies | June 16, 2008

While the US and Germany would welcome full French participation in NATO, Sarkozy faces stiff resistance to the notion domestically. ++ The fact that French military representation in NATO "far exceeds" analogous French efforts in ESDP should be addressed. ++ The US should emphasize its role as partner rather than leader with regards to NATO, and "positional bargaining" needs to be avoided by all parties. ++ Given current global and dynamic challenges, it is essential that the alliance and the EU work more effectively with one another.