Six months ago, the French presidency of the European Council was expected with eagerness, but also with apprehension and a lot of suspense. French president Nicolas Sarkozy opened his inaugural speech before the European Parliament with the assertion “Europe cannot be condemned to inaction”. And, as expected, after six months the French demonstrated an unexpected work rhythm that is unlikely to be maintained by the upcoming Czech presidency. However, the rejected Lisbon Treaty by the Irish cast a cloud over the start of the presidency. Some months later the war between Russia and Georgia broke out during the president’s holidays. The crisis was not yet completely resolved, when the financial downturn reached the top of the French presidency’s agenda. Only through a second attempt did Sarkozy manage to achieve common actions in the euro-zone. Despite these turbulent times, even critical voices have complimented the omnipresent Nicolas Sarkozy. Within the crisis, the French also managed to accomplish their initial programme for the presidency around the issues of climate change and energy, the reform of the agricultural policy, Europe´s defence policy as well as an immigration pact. Only the question of the future of the Lisbon Treaty remains. The Czech presidency will be measured on its successful resolution of the rejection of the Treaty.

Photo: www.ue2008.fr; Elysée