European Union Already Prepared for Election

According to this article ("European Union Draws Up Letter to New U.S. Leader" by Crispian Balmer) at Reuters, the European Union has written a letter to the next president of the United States. The letter will be sent to the winner as soon as possible. In the letter, the EU calls for more cooperation between the US and the EU in addressing world issues. French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner commented on the letter, expressing a desire "to open a new chapter in global harmony, global balance, [and] global change" and to put an end to "unilateral decisions that try to resolve the problems of the world." Indeed, the major world powers such as the US and the EU will need to work together to resolve emerging crises as the world enters a new age of globalization. However, perhaps the EU is being a bit premature in composing this letter? After all, whether Obama or McCain wins tomorrow (Tomorrow? Really? Where did the time go?) George W. Bush will still be President until January 2009, and the EU will be dealing with him, not tomorrow’s winner. Likewise, should the winner begin engaging in Presidential duties before he even takes office? While the letter is not necessarily a bad idea (and will hopefully do a lot to improve US foreign relations, which have suffered since the beginning of the Iraq War) perhaps it would be best if it was not sent until the winner of the election actually takes office.

The European Union hopes to work with the United States to alleviate the global financial crisis and help negotiate peace between Russia and Georgia. The EU also plans to work with China, India, and Brazil, along with other world powers.

Though most Europeans would rather see Obama elected president, those who wrote the letter refused to endorse either candidate. Benita Ferrero-Waldner, the EU’s external relations commissioner, said "It is for the American people to elect their president. We will then work with whoever is there." Although the EU may be a bit preemptive, their actions are a good step towards increased international cooperation.