Galvanised by the horror of last week's attacks in New York and Washington, the European Union has united behind an unprecedented display of support for the United States and the principle of a military riposte.
After meeting in special session last night, the 15 EU leaders issued a forceful and ground-breaking final declaration, describing a US military response as "legitimate" and authorising member states to take part in actions "each according to its means."
These actions "will require close co-operation with all member states of the European Union," the declaration says - thus confirming the EU's growing determination to move into the military arena, a responsibility traditionally consigned to NATO.
"I think today, with these conclusions, we have maybe the most advanced form of solidarity between the European Union and the United States, expressed in the clearest possible way," said Belgian Prime Minister Mr Guy Verhofstadt, whose country currently holds the agenda-setting EU presidency.
"The EU is showing not only verbal solidarity but also that it is ready to assist in necessary military measures," said German Chancellor Mr Gerhard Schroeder.
Britain's Prime Minister Mr Tony Blair spearheaded the call for a tough response, and is the most likely to join a military campaign.
AFP
