This is not narrowmindedness, this is just lack of resources. This not for today either, Europe has been like this for centuries, with countries that were at each others' throats for fighting over resources and later over off continent colonies. The darkest times were 20'th century where their wars poured into the rest of the world and we had European War 1 and European War 2 which are commonly known as WW1 and WW2.
Do you speak German?
We catered for the German market and about 60% of our clients went crying instead of doing.
We sold article places for a Scandinavian company about 1000 e a month worth, now we sell them articles about 500 € a year worth.
Your single point is looking only at industrial levels, German are blaming their Government. Most of the guilt is on them.
When older you grow more cautious.
Now do yo speak German or just judge by articles you read?