Lithuanian politicians expect next French president François Hollande to be more euro-active

Vytenis Andriukaitis, a social democratic MP and member of the parliamentary Committees on European and Foreign Affairs, told BNS on Monday he was personally acquainted with the French president-elect as he had the chance to work with him in the presidium of the Party of European Socialists.

"He's very active in search for European policy. He's a euro-federalist, a clear supporter of European integration and leader of the "New social Europe" idea. He used to work closely with former Danish Prime Minister Poul Nyrup Rasmussenin looking for ways to overcome the existing economic crisis, stimulate the creation of jobs and employment," Andriukaitis said, adding that Hollande had also contributed to proposals on more stringent bank control.

"He will look for a stronger euro-federalist voice in foreign policy, opportunities to unite Europe's political teams into one voice. I believe Hollande will be true to his ideas," the social democratic MP said.

In Andriukaitis' words, French socialists strongly support US President Barack Obama's reset of relations with Russia.

Petras Auštrevičius, another member of the parliamentary committees, representing the Liberal Movement, told BNS: "Hollande is assuming the presidential post in France during a difficult and changeable period for the entire European Union."

"As long-term secretary general of the French Socialist Party, he will definitely be true to his party's ideology. He is more famous for being a good process participant, rather then a good strategist. It once again shows that he will base his actions on agreement he is used to work on. (…) I believe France will put more effort to take more of the lead in Europe and even the world through the socialist dimension," he said.

"How will it manifest itself? I believe results of the Franco-German dialogue will change. The so-called 'Mercozy' project will collapse, and a new one will emerge. And I think there will be a proposal to reflect hopes of a Europe that is tired of saving. The question is - to what extent might this idea be implemented? I believe France may get closer to and find agreement with Great Britain as now it matches the EU policy declared by the Brits. I hope to hear more of their joint statements," Auštrevičius said.

He, however, does not expect French policy changes in the North Atlantic Alliance or the country's relations with Russia.

"I believe France will stay true to Sarkozy's decision to return France to political participation within NATO. And relations with Russia will be based on pragmatism which now has the decisive role," the politician said.

His opinion is shared by conservative MP and chairman of the parliamentary Committee on National Security and Defense, Arvydas Anušauskas. He said "there usually are no major or quick changes" in foreign policy of such major countries as France.

"Foreign policy is consistent, no matter what government or president is in office. France has always tried to demonstrate a bigger contribution to common Euro-Atlantic affairs. (…). I believe France has always had exceptional relations with Russia, and I do not hope for any major changes in this sphere," he said.

"Very often, candidates - and France is no exception - use this card trying to convince voters that everything will be finished with Afghanistan one way or the other, and the country will withdraw its troops as soon as possible. But since the responsibility transfer plan is already in place, I don’t believe France will start changing something radically," Anušauskas said.

According to official French presidential electron results, Hollande, 57, received 51.62 percent of the vote during the presidential election on Sunday, beating incumbent Nicolas Sarkozy who got 48.43 percent.