I agree, There is only one problem, In Germany and France there are no visible "Statesmen". Throughout history. courageous statesmen emerge at the most desperate times. In good times most leaders are well fed and satisfied with the status quo. If those two countries continue on their present course, we may see some statesmen (or women) emerge soon. Their socialist system is about to collapse. I always said the worst thing that ever happened to Germany was "the Wirtschftswunder". It made people lazy and complacent. Now they don't want to or know how to make sacrifices to change their situation.
I agree, There is only one problem, In Germany and France there are no visible "Statesmen". And we should wait for them to produce statesmen because...? If we see ourselves as leaders then let us be responsible and take a leadership position. This means being first, showing the way, not waiting for the other guy.
Schroeder was willing to face down opposition to give us support in Afghanistan
In speeches this week, Schroeder has made clear he will not tolerate any opposition to his policy of unqualified support for the U.S. in the fight against terrorism. In an address yesterday, he specifically warned his coalition's partner, the Green Party, against taking an independent line.