A French rejection of the European Union's constitutional treaty would result in the "fall of Europe," Romano Prodi, former president of the European Commission, warned on Sunday.

His words came as the Yes campaign stepped up its increasingly desperate search for a strategy to turn the tide of public opinion ahead of the May 29 vote. In the starkest warning yet of the consequences for the EU if French voters reject the treaty Mr Prodi who was in office when it was drawn up told a French newspaper: "There would be no more Europe. We will pass through a long period of crisis.

A French rejection of the European Union's constitutional treaty would result in the "fall of Europe," Romano Prodi, former president of the European Commission, warned on Sunday.

His words came as the Yes campaign stepped up its increasingly desperate search for a strategy to turn the tide of public opinion ahead of the May 29 vote. In the starkest warning yet of the consequences for the EU if French voters reject the treaty Mr Prodi who was in office when it was drawn up told a French newspaper: "There would be no more Europe. We will pass through a long period of crisis.

Prodi warns that a No vote in next month's French referendum on the European Constitution would have serious repercussions for the European project, possibly resulting in the "fall of Europe". I am not sure what he means by that dire statement. It is hard to imagine the whole project grinding to a halt after so many years of effort. It likely that a new structure might emerge out of new talks and arrangements that adjust to the reality of Europe as it is rather then what is dreamed.

Emphasizing how important the May 29 French vote is, Germany's Chancellor Gerhard Schrodor went to France today to speak out in favor of the treaty. in a press conference with French President Jacques Chirac Schrodor said "The idea of a unified Europe comes from France," he said, adding that a No vote would weaken the collective power of all Europeans". The numberr of prominent European leaders now speaking out to influence French opinion shows the depth of concern many have that the wheels could come off in France if the treaty is rejected.

Meanwhile one European observer, Wolfgang Munchau writing in the April 25, 2005 Financial Times suggested an alternative Plan B " that has generated some excitement in political circles in Paris and Berlin-the "core-Europe scenario". Under this plan the constitution would be dropped, while France and Germany would agree bilaterally to enhance their co-operation in economic and fiscal policy". He goes on to say that Spain and Belgium would join this arrangement and possibly Italy. The plan could encompass the 12 nations who currently make up the eurozone, those nations who have adopted the euro.

Munchau mentions the key ingredient to make any plan work is strong leadership. "The political leadership in Europe is so weak that such a bold plan is extremely unlikely to move beyond the drafting stage".

The need for a strong leader to emerge in Europe is telling. Bible prophecy shows there will be a strong political leader to emerge one day in Europe. Ten kings will give their power to such a person, called "the beast". He will partner with a strong religious leader who will enhance the power and prestige of this political leader. This combination will astound the world and rally many to support its agenda which will lead to a final confrontation with Jesus Christ. You can read more of this fascinating story in our booklet The Book of Revelation Unveiled .

A French 'No' on the European Constitution will not result in the fall of Europe. It may force a realignment and a new plan, resulting in something different than what we now see. But Europe is destined to play a large and significant role in future world affairs.