Brussels Forum: NATO Secretary General Rasmussen called for Russia to be included in a new Euroatlantic missile defense shield to protect against threats from would-be nuclear states like Iran. Rasmussen was addressing the Brussels Forum, an annual high-level conference on transatlantic relations.
... More
Marek Kubista: The European elections are fast approaching, yet there is little suspense in the air. Perhaps that’s because the outcome is pre-determined: the PPE will win and Jose Manuel Durao Barroso will be reappointed. In April, the left will be given a final chance to decide on a candidate and strengthen European democracy
... More
Global governance structures need to be revisited to ensure they work for people everywhere. ++ Multi-lateral engagement is necessary to address major international issues like climate change, which – aside from the environmental effects – “could have serious geopolitical and social repercussions.” ++ The EU cannot meet its challenges without a strong Europe in the World.
... More
The developing world will bear the brunt of climate change and we should take a moral approach to solving the problems it will produce. ++ The crisis bears with it large economic potential: “Building the low-carbon economy that we need will unleash a surge of innovation, investment and jobs in clean technologies and products.” ++ “Green growth” is possible but Europe must
... More
Jose Manuel Barroso has been given a second 5 year term as President of the European Commission despite becoming increasingly unpopular with EU leaders. ++ Various senior parliament members have described Barroso as lacking “courage and vision” and being simply “not electable.” ++ This suits Paris, Berlin and London who are quite happy with a “harmless figurehead” who will not disrupt their
... More
Tony Blair and José Manuel Barroso are popular and capable politicians, but as the Presidents of the European Council and the European Commission they would be a deadly combination. ++ Mr. Blair’s “political star qualities” will not be enough to succeed in the tough new job of coordinating the 27 heads of state. ++ The two do not represent the diversity of Europe opinion, since they both
... More
