Some of the US's strongest supporters in the war in Iraq are calling for a more conciliatory attitude from Washington in the wake of George W. Bush's re-election, as well as for a more accommodating approach by the European Union.
The UK, Poland and Denmark, which have all sent troops to Iraq, have all signalled their belief that the US has to take a more consensual approach in its dealings with its traditional allies in Europe.
But they also want countries such as France and Germany, the main anti-war states within the EU, to help heal the relationship by contributing more to the reconstruction of Iraq.
“I heard the comments of many heads of government that they underlined the importance of good transatlantic ties,” said Jan Peter Balkenende, Dutch prime minister, who was chairing a EU summit on Thursday. The Netherlands is also a traditionally strong US ally, although it has announced plans to pull its troops out of Iraq next March.
Tony Blair, UK prime minister said: “In particular, Europe and America must build anew their alliance.” Mr Blair's official spokesman said on Thursday that his comments were aimed at the White House, as well as opponents of the Iraq war such as France and Germany.
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