This sequence between Dominique de Villepin and Elisabeth Borne perfectly illustrates all the difference that exists between soft-power diplomacy, which is the prerogative of major powers, and declaratory diplomacy, that of second-rank states. that no longer really count in the great affairs of the world.
The difference between upholding international law and resorting to mere empty rhetoric. Villepin personifies the former, Borne the latter. The chasm is gigantic.
France under Jacques Chirac twice obtained a ceasefire in Lebanon:
-Following the Qana massacre on 18 April 1996, the Minister for Foreign Affairs (Hervé de Charette) had been instructed not to return to France until an agreement was reached and France was involved in its monitoring.
- In the summer of 2006, a new war between Israel and Hezbollah ravaged the Land of the Cedars, just like today. France took the initiative in the vote for Resolution 1701, which brought a temporary end to the conflict.
What will have been the point of Stéphane Séjourné and Jean-Noël Barrot's tours in the region?
The worst part is that the actors (in reality spectators) of this purely declarative and protocol-driven diplomacy think they are doing what is necessary, sometimes in good faith while being completely wide of the mark.
The French «decline» continues. Roll on hitting rock bottom so we can start coming back up to the surface!
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