This article appeared recently on the net, and I for one agree.
In the UK we are taught French as our main second language and generally German as an alternative later.
Memo to Global Executives - Learn Spanish
In the global economy it is not uncommon for an American executive to deal with suppliers in China, developers in India and clients in Europe. Though that scenario is rife with potential communication hurdles, when it comes to learning a foreign language, most U.S. executives have focused their attention on the fastest growing population in this country.
According to a survey conducted by TheLadders.com, the world’s leading $100,000+ jobs Web site, a solid majority of job seekers in the $100k+ market say Spanish is the most important second language for today’s business people.
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Food for thought for an English teacher!