Stardate 20040322.1523

(On Screen): The Europeans are getting serious about terror.

European Union foreign ministers warned partner countries Monday their relations with the economically powerful bloc will suffer if they fail to cooperate in the fight against terrorism.

The warning marks a major shift for the Europeans, who have been traditionally reluctant to use trade and aid as weapons to force compliance from countries outside the bloc.

Except that they are not actually fighting terror.

The EU's foreign policy chief has warned against an over-reaction in the European Union following the bomb attacks in Madrid on 11 March.

In an interview with Bild am Sonntag Mr Solana said "Europe does not find itself at war".

This must be an example of nuance and sophistication.