Foreign policy

[Highwayman]

Improving our image around the world.

The prime minister’s support of the Bush administration was evident during his US visit as he warned the Democratic candidates about changing America’s course

Prime Minister Anders Fogh Ramussen spoke out last week against the Democratic presidential candidates’ platforms during his visit to Washington DC, cautioning them against radically altering the nation’s current policies.

While the PM refused to get deeply involved in the US presidential elections, he spoke out against a new administration tinkering with the country’s economic and military courses. Both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have criticised a number of the current administration’s policies, including the NAFTA free trade agreement and the war in Iraq.

‘When the economy is in a slump, there is always a tendency to react defensively,’ Rasmussen said in a speech to the US Chamber of Commerce. ‘One really ought to do the opposite and promote free trade. NAFTA is and will continue to be an advantage for the US.’

Rasmussen later said his comments were not necessarily directed at the two Democratic candidates.

‘I can’t go back on my support for free trade just because there’s an election,’ he said.

Regarding the situation in Iraq, Rasmussen said that President Bush made the right decision to invade the country, and he also supported the initial decision to send troops to Afghanistan. He cautioned the Democratic candidates about their promises to pull out of Iraq.

‘These type of comments are what candidates say during an election campaign,’ said the PM. ‘But the reality is something for which a new president will have to accept the responsibilities.’

Rasmussen admitted the Iraq war had been an immense challenge, but defended both the US and Denmark’s participation.

‘It is the right and moral thing to do in sticking with the job,’ Rasmussen said of the military efforts.

The Copenhagen Post