Europe’s New Boss Jan Peter Balkenende

BRUSSELS (De Telegraaf) –  The probability that PM Balkenende will move to Brussels is becoming more likely. At the start of the European Council meeting yesterday of its 27 members, it became clear that Tony Blair, a long time favorite for the position to become Europe’s first president, is slowly being sidetracked.

Increasingly, top leaders express their preference for a candidate from the European family of Christian Democrats, and clearly to the advantage of Dutch PM Balkenende. Once again the prime minister firmly denied being in the race. In diplomatic language this is to be perceived that his chances are rising.

Listening to Balkenende from left to right premier Fillon and
president Sarkozy (France), premier Vanhanen (Finland) and
the Romanian president Basescu. (AFP)

NY Times – Blair’s Hopes of Leading E.U. Are Fading