There are also cultural differences that are hard to bridge. Americans have little interest in or ability to understand European culture, and vice- versa. What understanding there is, remains stuck on a fairly supeerifical level. Egos, egos, egos.

I think personalities(like Sarkozy) can only have a minor impact. Much more depends on events. Iraq has been so disruptive that it will take a long time to repair the damage.. However, should there be common interests, I have no doubt, that co-operation will be embraced with enthusiasm.

I don't tknow that much about German society, but I do observe that the French are changing. The interest in Sarkozy's private life is something entirely new.

That's my 2cts worth.