Gypsy deportations threaten to derail EU leaders’ summit

12 April 2012

A Brussels summit of EU leaders today was set to be overshadowed by an escalating row over France's expulsion of gypsies.

The dispute threatens to undermine the EU's efforts to present a unified foreign and economic policy, the main thrust of the meeting. Instead of agreeing joint foreign policies on China, India and the rest of Asia, the European leaders were faced with damage control at home.

"When we promote free trade, climate change and human rights around the world, we need to have our own back yard in order," said Finland foreign minister Alexander Stubb.

"Anything that looks a little bit different, perhaps suspicious or complicated in Europe, will not strengthen our foreign policy."

On the agenda was a commitment to create a better understanding of the Roma's plight across Europe.

The EU is pledged to the integration of Roma across the community. EU justice commissioner Viviane Reding expressed regret over her outburst on Tuesday when she compared France's expulsion Roma to deportations during the Second World War. France sent about 76,000 Jews to Nazi concentration camps, and interned thousands of gypsies.

"Madame Reding made unacceptable statements about French policy, in particular certain comparisons with the Second World War," said French foreign minister Bernard Kouchner.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel criticised Ms Reding'. "I found the tone and especially the historical comparisons unsuitable," she said. "And I hope we can find a better way."

President Nicolas Sarkozy insists the expulsions are aimed at fighting crime and illegal immigration.

Foreign ministers will consider a proposal for EU members to waive tariffs on Pakistan textiles to help the country recover from its devastating floods. The move could be worth £250 million to Pakistan.

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