"It's true that the war in Iraq opened a distance in relations between part of Europe and the U.S. government, but our basic ties are stronger than that. We share democracy, free markets and a commitment to Western security. We differ on how to guarantee that security"

The quote by Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero speaks to the strained relationship between the United States and parts of Europe due to the war in Iraq. However, Zapatero is emphasizing that the hidden ties between the two are still strong. He points out that the U.S. and Europe share a commitment to democracy, free markets, and Western security. While they might differ on how to ensure that security, Zapatero is suggesting that the core values and beliefs that the two share are more important than the differences in viewpoint. This quote is a suggestion that despite the differences, the U.S. and Europe have a strong foundation of shared worths and beliefs that will continue to bind them together.