Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Monday, May 13, 2002
Schroeder, Blair Warns of Right Extremism in Europe
German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder and British Prime Minister Tony Blair on Sunday called for fighting against the right extremist tendency in Europe.
German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder and British Prime Minister Tony Blair on Sunday called for fighting against the right extremist tendency in Europe.
After their talks here, Schroeder told the press that both leaders discussed the danger of "undemocratic, extreme rightists growing stronger in Europe."
"The re-nationalization tendency, which has found expression in the right extremism, is problematic for the expansion and integration of Europe," he said.
Schroeder urged all political forces, whether in left or in right camps, to fight against extreme rightists.
Blair said that it is important for all democrats to unify their efforts in fighting against extreme political tendency and make it clear that extreme ideas can not bring about security for Europe.
Schroeder and Blair also expressed their support for a Middle East peace conference and stressed that the talks should not only focus on security, but also on political issues.
During the meeting, Schroeder briefed Blair on his recent trip to Afghanistan. Both leaders pledged continued support, including the presence of their troops, for the reconstruction process in the war-torn country, Schroeder said.
Blair arrived here on Sunday evening for the regular consultation between the heads of government of the two countries.