In less than five months, the French presidency of the European Union will begin. Legitimately proud of its success in helping Europe transcend its institutional blockage through a “simplified” EU treaty, Paris is keen to impress on the world that France is back, through a combination of energy and imagination. Yet one element for the success of France’s European strategy seems to be missing. It is a close, trusting and positive relationship with Germany. Without it, France jeopardises its chances of a successful presidency of the EU.

Officially, the French president and the German chancellor are the best of friends. You see them kissing and hugging on the television screens of both countries. Yet the reality is different. Sources close to the leaders say that Nicolas Sarkozy and Angela Merkel are incapable of coming closer together.