There is no doubt that France supports an agreed position on close accord with Britain and Germany in the EU-3 group.

The summit succeeded last week in demonstrating that the EU is capable of action. Germany played a crucial mediating role without sacrificing national interests. We have made clear we see this as a huge success.

Merkel knows EU integration had been driven by the decades-long relationship between Germany and France. But I think the view is shifting. I don't think that Merkel is prepared to wait for France to emerge from its political malaise.

Germany and France are united in their horror over the accident.

Whatever minor differences we have, this task can be taken on only by Germany and France together,

They have it wrong in asking if Schroeder favors Britain over France, or France over Britain. Schroeder favors Germany. That is what we all have to understand.