‘Full steam ahead for Europe. Pleased to meet you. Likewise!’ On 16 May 2012, German cartoonist Thomas Plaßmann illustrates the differences of opinion that look set to surface between the new Franco-German duo Hollande and Merkel over European issues. As soon as he took up office on 15 May, the new French President met Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin for a first exchange of views. The two Heads of State disagree on many points, particularly the budget pact, which Paris wishes to renegotiate.