Nicolas Baverez: “Fire the Franco-German couple” – Le Figaro

By Nicolas BaverezPublished yesterday at 20:34, Updated 21 minutes ago “The brutal divorce between Paris and Berlin is certainly explained by the accumulation of shocks, but it also refers to deeper factors,” says Nicolas Baverez . François BOUCHON/Le FigaroCHRONICLE – Germany has always fiercely defended its interests in Europe, particularly those of its industry. When France is content to talk about sovereignty, Germany exercises it. Between Paris and Berlin, nothing works. The indefinite postponement of the Franco-German Council of Ministers scheduled for Fontainebleau on October 26 has its origins in a series of differences which is turning into an open crisis. The war in Ukraine has caused tensions to explode, destabilizing Europe and pushing the Germany towards a “Germany First” strategy to respond to the questioning of its model based on dependence on Russian gas, the low cost of services, industrial exports to the Brics and the delegation of its security to the United States. Berlin has sought to limit its vulnerability and safeguard its interests at all costs, even if it means clashing with those of its partners, particularly those of France. The list of disputes is now endless. Berlin, which bears a major responsibility for Russia’s progressive seizure of Europe’s energy supply, is holding back the gas price cap, the reform of the European electricity market… This article is for subscribers only. You have 80% left to discover. Freedom is also to go to the end of a debate. Continue reading your article for 0.99€ the first month Already a subscriber? Login