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The Élysée Treaty (of friendship between France and Germany, negotiated 1963 by de Gaulle and Adenauer) „is without doubt important on the level of symbolism“, writes Maurice Vaïsse (La grandeur. Politique étrangère du général de Gaulle 1958-1969, p 259, my translation).
„But, corresponding to the different ulterior motives of of the two partners“, the Élysée Treaty has led to „a misunderstanding“. For de Gaulle the pact with Germany „must lead to the emancipation of Europe, and has to further the re-balancing of the transatlantic relationship“.
For Adenauer by contrast the treaty „is an instrument to put pressure on the US and an instrument to raise Germany’s status“. I would add that for Adenauer the close alliance with France also served as a backup as he was never sure of US determination to stay in Europe.
Striking how the recently signed Aachen Treaty has been driven by similar ulterior motives. Again what is most contentious is the relationship with the U.S.
And again, the UK plays a role in the mix. In 1963 the UK wanted to join the EU integration project, but de Gaulle blocked it -- to the frustration of many in Germany. Now the UK is on the way out, and the power balance in the EU is changing again.
