Segolene's thoughts on Canada...

While I was never particularly fascinated by domestic politics in Canada, I have to admit the French scene is much more engaging not only due to the upcoming elections and the challenges associated with registering for them, but also simply due to the french political culture. After all, in what other country will you find political debates where the politicians are talking in complete unison? by 'unison' I do not mean that they are not in complete agreement, quite opposite, they are in a state of constant and complete disagreement on everything, as a matter of principle of course. by 'unison' I mean that they are talking at the same time, after all this strategy, however unfamiliar to foreigners, avoids them actually have to listen to the opponent's opinions and argue against them as opposed to reiterate the points carefully drafted backstage by their campaign managers.
And in what other country is there such a range of political opinion? From Le Penn who keeps a consistently racist and so-far-right-that-left-cannot-even-be-seen-on-the-horizon rhetoric (one no longer knows whether to take seriously or just to forgive him due his old age) to my personal favourite Segolene Royal. Sorry, Segolene I don't have the accents on my keyboard!

While Segolene's feminine talk and soft approach (read: no approach) politics - I want to give everthing they deserve to my people! - may work with some at home, it just doesn't seem to pay off for the poor lady abroad. To prove her political maturity, Segolene has been increasing her appearances on the international political scene. I found particularly impactful her series of tea meeting with Chinese housewifes. Apparently, the number 10 of the Chinese cabinet was too busy to see her.

Apparently, local political incompetence refuses to stay local. Segolene's latest commentary is spreading outside her native France to Lebanon, China and now...Canada! Selon Segolene, Quebec should have the independence it deserves. At least this remark demonstrates the consistency of Ms. Royal's approach - neither does she understand the practical implications of her domestic propositions, nor does she seem to understand those of her foreign policy statements. And while on the foreign policy scene Canada is most definitely not a loud player, Ms. Royal's remarks have managed to rub even the Canadians the wrong way.

http://tf1.lci.fr/infos/elections-2007/0,,3383704,00-mot-royal-qui-herisse-canadiens-.html