French EU Presidency: a strong ambition for results that remain to be obtained

5.16.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 10th Jul 2008

The Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe welcomed the European ambition that Nicolas Sarkozy displayed today whilst speaking before the European Parliament. However, the Liberals underline that there is a real urge, now that the Irish voted against the Lisbon Treaty, to obtain concrete results during this sixth-month-term to bring Europe closer to its citizens.

"The case for a practical, problem-solving Europe is stronger than ever,"

ALDE Leader Graham WATSON said.

"The French Presidency appears business-like and committed and the vision of Europe, which Nicolas Sarkozy outlined today, appeals to many. However, we are still to find in his actions the team spirit of advancing Europe together. If he is to be a team-player, President Sarkozy should stay away from the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics just as his counterparts in the European Parliament and Commission will do so . France gave Europe the Rights of Man. Now France must lead us in their defence. And while it may be optimistic to ask a French Presidency to liberalise markets, to bring security within our borders we must bring hope beyond them."