There was political theatre as well as genuine political convergence in the meeting between President Clinton and the British prime minister, Mr Blair, in London this week. It has been said of Mr Clinton that if you're worth being seen with, he'll be there - and there can be no doubt that Mr Blair's star is in the international ascendant following his decisive victory and the spanking pace of reform that has so far marked his first weeks in office. Both men have much to gain from presenting their new relationship in the most positive light and there is ample evidence that on major issues they think alike and could cooperate constructively in such a way as to make a real difference on the international scene.
It remains to be seen whether this will reconstitute the special relationship so dear to the hearts of British statesmen and women in the postwar years. Mr Clinton put down a clear marker about its parameters when he underlined that Britain did not have to choose between a strong relationship with Europe and one with Washington: "I think the one strength deepens the other. A Britain that is leading in Europe is a Britain capable of ever closer relations also with the United States of America".
This was not the case under the Conservative government, a fact that was more important than the personal and political coolness between Messrs Clinton and Major. Now that Britain and the US are more synchronised geopolitically it will be easier for the two leaders to cooperate on international issues.
Their readiness to do so on Northern Ireland means there will be less opportunity for its parties to play Washington against London as the peace process unfolds in coming months. Mr Clinton says his administration will support the efforts of the Irish and British governments to bring it forward. This is a commitment which could add enormously to the chances of reaching a settlement. It will be up to all concerned to read the signals in a politically intelligent fashion, most notably in the republican movement which will have to deliver a credible and sustainable ceasefire if Sinn Fein is to become part of the process, as Mr Clinton clearly hopes it will. The next period will provide an unparalleled opportunity to make progress in objectively favourable conditions. It is the subjective political will to do so that has been lacking.
On several other issues the two men had a clear meeting of minds. They agreed to convene a special meeting of the Group of Eight industrial nations next year to promote employment opportunities in the international economy. They share an analysis that growth must be reconciled with social cohesion and is best promoted by emphasising education and skills and flexible job markets. There was much talk of the end of yesterday's ideology - and there is indeed an opportunity to put these converging political positions to the test in coming years.
On Bosnia, Mr Clinton's plea for practical cooperation to implement the Dayton accord was well received by Mr Blair; if they could agree to take the initiative in arresting those accused of war crimes that would be a concrete sign of cooperation indeed.