"CFSP and the Central and Eastern European countries: Franco-German perspectives"

Wohlfeld, Monika. (1997) "CFSP and the Central and Eastern European countries: Franco-German perspectives". In: UNSPECIFIED, Seattle, WA. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

The common denominator of Franco-German relations, CFSP, Central and Eastern Europe and EU enlargement issues is the concept of flexibility. Flexibility can be defined as intensified cooperation of two or more EU member states which wish to do so in one or more areas within the framework of the Union. In the Franco-German vision of flexibility, the second pillar (CFSP) is the most likely application of the concept. This paper suggests that France and Germany have found a compromise on the conflicting goals of deepening and widening this concept of flexibility. For the Central European candidates, this approach appears dangerous despite some potentially promising aspects, as it may mean being left out in the periphery of the integration process. This paper concentrates on issues that relate exclusively to Franco-German relations, CFSP, flexibility and enlargement, and thus leaves out such important areas as for example, EMU, military cooperation, and positions on WE-WEU links. It first discusses aspects of Franco-German relations, particularly their significance for Central Europe in general and for EU and NATO reform and enlargement in particular. It continues by presenting the French-German and Central European assessment of CFSP as it exists today, and presents Franco-German suggestions for improvement of its visibility and effectiveness presented within the framework of the IGC. Finally, it analyses the Central European reactions to these proposals.

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