Germany and the renewal of French nuclear strategy

Jacques Chirac speech on ''Ile Longue'' provoked a vigorous reaction in Germany, and has been perceived as a dangerous provocation in the context of the ongoing and difficult negotiations with Iran. However, Germany should accept its responsibilities in the field of nuclear armament, for the sake of the interdependence of the countries of Europe. Deterrence still has a fundamental role in international relations, and gives one country the power to influence another by preventing the use of force. In view of the setback of the French President intervention and German unease in security and defence matters, the European dimension must be given a special role in establishing and reinforcing a common strategy, indispensable in today world. (author)