Thanks, alanabit - it is better if such statements are made by observers coming from abroad and not by the people concerned.
Yes, we Europeans have learned the bitter lessons of two big wars; stereotypes won't help us any more, but respect for the other ones' rights and ways. The Mudcat, by the way, I experienced as very helpful to know strangers better, and suddenly they are strangers no more, but good friends even if you never have met them.