The Franco-German cooperation or the Franco-German locomotive are terms used to describe the highly collaborative countries of France and Germany, especially in the context of European Union.
Although France has sometimes been Euroskeptical, especially under President de Gaulle, Franco-German agreement and cooperation has always been key to European integration. In recent times, France and Germany are the most enthusiastic proponents of the further integration of the Union. They are sometimes described as as the "main engine" or "core countries" pushing for such a move. This integrationist agenda is facing growing opposition from Euroskeptics such as the United Kingdom, but also increasing numbers of EU countries, particularly the new members where euro-critical parties performed well in the European Parliament election, 2004.
Origins
The treaty on Franco-German cooperation, the Elysée treaty, was signed by de Gaulle and Adenauer on January 22, 1963.
Industrial alliance
The government of the two nations are making enormous efforts to merge the biggest enterprises of the Franco-German industrial alliance, it is interesting to note that once united the Franco-Germans enterprises often rise to world leadership in their respective fields.
Franco-German collaborative enterprises include;
Political alliance
The two countries are following common foreign affairs policies, a strong example of this is the 2003 Iraq War that aligned the Franco-German alliance with Russia in opposition to American foreign policy.
President Chirac has stated his desire to see Europe as a counterweight to American power against what some see as increasingly predatory American politics in the Middle East.
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External links
Last updated: 08-01-2005 06:12:28
