Solana’s Silence — What Holly Thinks

Photo credit: Council of the EU

Sometimes silence speaks louder than words. This axiom proves true in an interview Javier Solana conducted with Euronews on Monday.

During the interview, Solana — the EU foreign minister — was asked what he thought about the recent appointments of the EU president and the new EU foreign minister who will replace Solana. He was also asked specifically about Catherine Ashton’s lack of experience in foreign policy compared to his extensive experience. Note how, both times, he dodges the questions. See the interview here.

In fact, he not only dodges the first question, but he actually — in a very slick manner — uses his answer to highlight Ashton’s lack of qualifications. He says that the heart of her new job — crisis management — is something she’ll have to “learn” as she goes. Ouch. Those aren’t very reassuring words about someone who is poised to take on what is, arguably, the most powerful position in the EU.

Never once during the interview does Solana say that he believes Ashton is qualified to be the foreign minister. He apparently agrees with Ashton’s critics who say her appointment makes a mockery of the position. This must really annoy Solana, who worked so hard during the past decade to beef up his position and give it teeth.

Not only did Solana’s silence speak loudly during the interview, but there’s been another glaring omission from him — an official statement from his office offering a word of congratulations to Ashton. I call the omission “glaring” because each time a new world leader is appointed Solana typically releases a statement of congratulations. Such congratulations would be in order — especially — for his successor. Or so it would seem. But, so far, nothing.

Just a loud silence.

— Holly Pivec
11/23/09