ABSTRACT
This chapter appears in the New York Times on 13 March 1990. The desire for liberty and democracy has overthrown outdated ideologies. Everywhere hear the same demands: a society based upon democratic values, separation of powers to protect against arbitrary acts, multiparty systems that safeguard the will of the people, an end to suffocating bureaucracy. German unification can be achieved only if it is accepted by all European countries. The reduction of East-West tensions favors disarmament, even if considerable arsenals still exist. North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), of course, adapt to the changes resulting from German unification and from progress toward disarmament. Another important element of security is the distinctive friendship between my country and Germany. A unified Germany will have to be part of this strengthening of the community. Confederation is the most flexible form of association between countries that want to come together on what is most important.
