16/11/2004

Europe and US must work together to beat terrorists, says Blair

The Prime Minister has called on Europe and America to "work together" to beat terrorism by a commitment to democracy, freedom and justice.

In a foreign policy speech at the Lord Mayor's Banquet last night, Mr Blair said Britain's alliance with America and Europe should be celebrated in an "interdependent world".

"Britain should be proud of its alliance with America; clear in its role in Europe; and a tireless advocate of a strong bond between the two," he said.

He said that military intervention should not be used to achieve democracy around the world, but that Europe and America should be working together to bring the democratic human and political rights taken for granted in the west.

The Prime Minister concluded: "Call it a bridge, a two-lane motorway, a pivot or call it a damn high wire, which is how it often feels; our job is to keep our sights firmly on both sides of the Atlantic, use the good old British characteristics of common sense and make the argument," he said.

"In doing so, we are not subverting our country either into an American poodle or a European municipality, we are advancing the British national interest in a changed world in the early 21st century. And yes, we should be optimistic and confident of an ability to do it."

(gmcg/sp)

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