Greater cooperation needed in second term, Bush told

President Bush must use his second term to forge greater cooperation with Europe in tackling global terrorism, spreading democracy and cutting poverty in Africa, Prime Minister Tony Blair has said.

Speaking after telephoning George Bush last night to congratulate him on his re-election, Mr Blair said that global terrorism, democratising Iraq, Middle East peace and assistance to Africa were issues the transatlantic allies must deal with at a time when the world faces a "fractured, divided and uncertain" future.

"Europe and America must build anew their alliance. All of us in positions of leadership - not just President Bush - have a responsibility to rise to this challenge. It is urgent that we do so," he said.

The Prime Minister added: "In particular I have long argued that the need to revitalise the Middle East peace process is the single most pressing political challenge in our world today. Therefore we must be relentless in our war against terrorism, and in resolving the conditions and causes on which the terrorists prey."

The Lib Dems also voiced their hope that George Bush's second term would see greater relationship-building and less unilateralism.

Party leader Charles Kennedy said: “Internationally, it is to be hoped that a second term will see a more sensitive approach to relations with long-standing allies, not least for the global efforts to combat terrorism."

However, Lib Dem deputy leader, Sir Menzies Campbell, was more frank in his assessment of the Bush victory.

He said: “President Bush’s victory has been at the cost of a nation more deeply divided than it was even in the 1960s.

“Europeans must hope that his administration will be much more multilateral in character, and that he will act swiftly to rebuild the Atlantic partnership which is so vital to security."

Sir Menzies warned: “Iraq will remain an issue of potential division for some time to come.”

The Conservative leader also stressed the necessity for the White House to provide international unity.

Michael Howard said: "We look to the President to be a unifying force for those all over the world who share our determination to defend freedom. We look forward to working with the President."

(gmcg/sp)