Dutch leader urges unity with U.S. - Attacks should not weaken Europe's resolve

Newark Star Ledger ^ | 3/16/04 | JOHN HASSELL

[Incorrigible]

Jan Peter Balkenende, whose government is scheduled to assume the rotating presidency of the European Union later this year, said, "We need solidarity as far as the struggle against terrorism is concerned. We need unity."

A day after voters in Spain ousted the ruling party that strongly backed the U.S.-led war in Iraq, Balkenende said more cooperation between Europe and the United States -- not less -- is necessary to defeat alQaeda, which is suspected of mounting the deadly attacks in Madrid last week.

[Incorrigible]

The reason, he said, is that "what has happened in Spain isn't only a matter for Spain. I think it's a threat for mankind."

 

It's nothing short of amazing to see the transformation Pim Fortuyn has wrought on Holland even after his assassination.

[Rutles4Ever]

They get it.

[Incorrigible]

Knighthawk,

"(Holland isn't a very America-friendly country), but I couldn't care less. I felt proud to show to the world that I loved the USA."

You may have to revise your About page.  It looks like your fellow countrymen are coming around to your point of view (if 20 years later!).

Thanks for being that lonely voice for so long.

[xrp]

Let us hope the Dutch keep their vigiliance high.

[Bismarck]

In deed. It's a global conflict between us, the Free World, and the Global Jihadist and their useful idiots, the Left.

[getgoing]

PING & a smile.

[hauerf]

I'm guessing that Jan Peter Balkenende is not one of the "more" leaders who have told Kerry they're rooting for him.

[Britton J Wingfield]

ping

[DJtex]

Le Monde published very similar calls of solidarity with the USA right after the bombings. It's amazing that the major, responsible powers in the EU (France, Germany, Belgium) do get it, even if the Spainards lashed out foolishly in their pain and rage last Sunday.

Strategically, the USA is in a stronger position now that terrorism is a reality for Europe. Spain is one player, important, and not lost yet. But how this plays out in all of Europe--and here at home--is much bigger.

If Kerry goes to Spain, as he hopes to, he will make this complex issue of euro-terrorism and the WOT in general, white-hot. I don't think he has the cojones to handle what he will unleash.

[knighthawk]

Well some people here are, I am suprised about the sudden backbone. But the PvdA (socialists/labor) want to call the troops back so terrorists won't strike us. Cowards. Next they want us to convert to islam or something.

But I am glad some people are standing and show a spirit long gone from the Dutch people.