Bush in Europe to mend fences

CNN.com ^ | Sunday, February 20, 2005 | N/A

[raybbr]

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- President Bush left on a five-day, fence-mending trip to Europe on Sunday, hoping to heal frayed feelings from the Iraq war and to bolster U.S.-European alliances. "Leaders on both sides of the Atlantic understand that the hopes for peace in the world depend on the continued unity of free nations," Bush said during his Saturday radio address. "We do not accept a false caricature that divides the Western world between an idealistic United States and a cynical Europe. America and Europe are the pillars of the free world," he said. "We share the same belief in freedom and the rights of every individual, and we are working together across the globe to advance our common interest and common values."

[raybbr]

Though their itinerary includes just three countries -- Belgium, Germany and the Slovak Republic -- Bush will be meeting with virtually every major political player on the continent, including French President Jacques Chirac, Russian President Vladimir Putin, German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder and the new president of Ukraine, Viktor Yushchenko.

In Brussels, Bush will also meet with NATO heads of state and members of the European Council, in addition to having one-on-one meetings with two European leaders who supported his Iraq policy -- British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

No mention of Poland - who has been a good ally in Iraq.

[NEBUCHADNEZZAR1961]

Given that Europe needs us far more then we need them I say they come to us on bended knee and beg for our forgiveness.

[NEBUCHADNEZZAR1961]

Given that Europe needs us far more then we need them I say they come to us on bended knee and beg for our forgiveness.

[joesbucks]

Let's see. Now after a few years of we don't need them, the heck with them, they need us more than we need them it's us who is going over there to mend the fences. Let's see, we'll suddenly see from the same people who voiced the above the Mr. Bush is such a gentleman and far sighted in his wisdom. I wonder what they price tag will be for our sudden European friends.

[evad]

Bush in Europe to mend fences...

Yeah...Texas style.

"Hi Jacques...I'm here to mend some fences.
Here's HOW we're going to do it."

[hermgem]

The Europeans are looking for self interest plus two things:
a) Exports to roll on a primarily one way street.
b) Continue fighting terrorism worldwide.
We remain sitting on the sidelines but supply, free of charge, all the advice you ever need.

[freedom7]

The Texas style doesn't seem to impress anyone but Texans. I'm still waiting to see how it has benefitted the other 49 states.

[joesbucks]

Bush in Europe to mend fences... Yeah...Texas style.

"Hi Jacques...I'm here to mend some fences.

Here's HOW we're going to do it."

"Now how big do I need to make the check and do I make it payable to France or to you personally."

[an italian]

Poor George!

Pray to him... He has to meet Chirac tonight! Poor President!