French President Sarkozy. Photo: Guillaume Paumier.

Throughout the most serious financial crisis to hit the Old Continent since the 1920s, one man outshines the roster of political leaders trying to save the European dream that started with Robert Schuman, the founder of the European idea in 1949.

His vigor, talent, persuasion and arrogance have made him the undisputed arbitrator of the moment. This can be his historic “Churchillian” moment for the taking. Surely, he would like nothing more than to be savior of his own country, thereby, giving France a unique place in European history. Yet, Monsieur Sarkozy recognizes the gravity of the looming danger and singlehandedly works indefatigably to salvage the future of an entire continent and its seven hundred million inhabitants.

If he prevails to overcome the catastrophic challenge presented to him by history, he would be the Charles de Gaulle of Europe. The task before him is practically insurmountable. Alone, he leads the charge to convince Germany to carry the entire financial burden of guaranteeing the staggering debt accumulated by irresponsible politicians who for years lavished huge social programs and deficits. Sarkozy is a man on a mission, together with his more reserved alter ego, Angela Merkel, he understands that the future of European peace is at stake. In one century two World Wars began in Europe, the latter provoked by a serious social fracture leading to unbearably high unemployment.

Witnessing the current situation and its dramatic possible outcome, I cannot seriously see anyone else replacing Sarkozy in this struggle. Europe is technically bankrupt and unable to finance other generous and social promises. Rigor and austerity are in the cards, and serious responsible politicians are needed to deal them to the people. All  responsible people that want Europe to exist as a viable economic and political entity must come to terms with reality. It’s time to pay for the mistakes of the past, which include living in a socialist utopia. Today, for all of Europe, the debt collector knocks at the door, like any ordinary family that lives on a budget.

Europe is on the verge of a precipice, and few have the experience to seriously handle the task. President Sarkozy is the most qualified, and whether one agrees or not, for better or for worse, he is today’s Mr. Europe.