As the German election approaches, the Chancellor is hard pressed to keep far away from the thorny issue of intervention in Syria.
But her intention to speak at the G20 summit in the hopes of rallying international support for intervention in Syria, or at least for action against the chemical attacks could lead one to believe that her personal view of the Syria problem is quite different from her public hands off display toward the Middle East crisis.
Her approach apparently will have to do with trying to convince Russia to support whatever action is deemed necessary to punish Syria for the chemical attacks.
The elections are at Merkel's door. On the 22nd of September, the new or incumbent Chancellor will be chosen. At this point, Merkel's future is unclear, but it remains to be seen what her role will be in the Syria conflict.
Germany is a strong China trader. If anyone in Europe can influence the decision making process in regards to the Syria conflict, Germany is it. But will it be enough to convince Russia to stand by as the US and France ready for possible airstrikes? That question remains unanswered.
It is interesting to note, however, that Merkel is willing to play advocate at a meeting where the Syria question is not even one of the items on the agenda. Furthermore the G20 will be held in St. Petersburg this time. One could say that Merkel is bringing the argument to Russia's doorstep. But the Russia-German relationship will always be at best lukewarm. Nevertheless, the Syria issue is expected to be a main feature in the plenary sessions during the two-day summit.
Obama has already announced he will not attend the summit, in a first time shocker most did not expect.
Source : France 24/ 9.3.13
No comments:
Post a Comment