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 The Consequences of Sarkozi's Victory on French Foreign Policy and France's Relations with Iran |
11 August 2007
Politic
Foreign Policy Department / Europe and America Studies Group
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Abstract
Relying upon its political and military power, France is poised to play a special role in Europe; also, its developments can be influential in Europe and other parts of the world. When Sarkozy came to power in France in May 2007, this country entered into a new era. Sarkozy's willingness to bring French foreign policy closer to that of the U.S. and Israel has presented the likelihood of a great deviation from the traditional French foreign policy based on Gaullism. There are different views on how likely is a radical shift in French policies.
Some analysts say that Sarkozy is the most atlanticist French president in the fifth republic. At the present time, France feels itself vary vulnerable, especially, in terms of maintaining security and countering terrorist threats. On the other hand, France can not afford heavy military costs required for responding these challenges. Therefore, France prefers to rely more heavily upon the United States. It seems that Sarkozy will imitate Ms. Merkel in conforming its policies with not be full- fledged and France will differ on the issues such as Turkey's membership in the EU and environment.
As for French Middle East policy, it is said that given the support accorded to Sarkozy by Zionists during his presidential campaigns, France might foster closer relations with Israel. But, the west interests of France in the Arab world as well as the pragmatic nature of Sarkozy's actions make unlikely any drastic change in the balanced French Middle East Policy.
Generally, Since the establishment of the fifth republic in France by General De Gaulle in 1958, France has pursued some constant principles in its foreign policy including: a)having a kind of global mission; b) trying to enhance France's influence and prestige at the international level; c) Multilateralism; d) Multiplicity.
Neglecting these principles requires that France distance itself from its established political traditions. Given the conflict between the Latin world and the Anglo – Saxon world, resistant of the foreign policy bureaucracy and also the existence of elites and public opinion, having no reputation of advocating the United States or Israel, it will be a very difficult job. According to some experts, Sarkozy's new positions do not mean a great deviation from the strategic principles of French foreign policy, rather he intends to overcome the problems created during the presidency of Chirac; hence, he avoids any new confrontation with the U.S. on the other hand, Sarkozy is not considered on experienced politician in the field of foreign policy and will be forced to rely upon advisors with strong conviction in Gaullist principles.
In conclusion, it should be said that Sarkozy should take specific structural considerations of the French society into account in his decisions.
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