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Helmut Kohl, on his address to the Bundestag in 1991 warned to the dangers of a Economic and Monetary Union without a Political Union.
Looking back, he was so spot on and insightful that almost hurts and it is now clear that Europe is crumbling at the first signs of Economic troubles mainly because it does not have a political union and vision. We do not feel Europeans.
Having spent a substantial amount of my time in the United States recently and in places as different as Austin in Texas, San Francisco in California and New York it is clear to me that we are in the presence of several very different cultures inside the same country (“Even the English is not the same!”).
In my experience and view, what unites these different “countries” (aka as States) within the same Union is the ENORMOUS sense of pride in what they call “Being an AMERICAN”. This enormous pride enables that rich states that by themselves would make to the top 10 countries in the world (e.g. California or Texas – Texas even has the unilateral right to leave the UNION if so wishes!) contribute to a central Federal budget that is then distributed among all States.
In my view this PRIDE is the greatness of the United States of America and the weakness of the European Union.
Don’t take my word for it! Then answer this question: When was the last time you waived the EU flag?
From today onwards I will waive a European Flag whenever I have the chance! What about you?