Union for Mediterranean, France Eastern Dream; Goals and obstacles

Subject Areas : International Relations

Shahnaz Zomorodbakhsh ¹

1 - Ph.D. student of Islamic Azad University

Received: 2015-05-12 Accepted : 2015-05-12 Published : 2014-08-23

Keywords: European Union, Foreign policy, France, Union for Mediterranean,

Abstract :

Union for Mediterranean was first introduced by Sarkozy in his elections campaign in 2008. Suggesting the establishment of such an organization (consisting of countries from Europe, Asia and Africa continents which common borders with Mediterranean) Pursued different goals including reproduction of Gulist approach, convincing Turkey to with draw its attempts for joining the EU, promoting France as the hegemonic power in Mediterranean region, resolving the issue of immigration from African countries to France, and more pronounced voice in the Middle Eastern developments. Sarkozy's proposal which faced with extensive objections from European and even African and the Middle Eastern countries, could introduce him as a history making leaders of Frances. Providing a review over the historical trend of the establishment of this regional institution, obstacles, the objection of other countries and Frances objectives in establishing this organization, tries to answer this question whether or not France could create a union Mediterranean and strengthen its influence despite the numerous challenges.