There is no doubt that the transatlantic relationship that has contributed to peace, stability, and prosperity for more than 70 years is at a critical juncture. The United States and Germany have numerous sticking points - sticking points - which include defense spending by NATO member states, tariffs and trade, and climate change. There are also differences in the way the Middle East, policy towards Russia, and energy - most notably regarding Nord Stream 2.
There is a danger that this can be done in a relationship, as a strategic opponent of China and Russia to fill this vacuum. It is harder to address the common challenges in a constructive way. But, just because it is difficult does not mean it is not worthwhile.
At the American Council on Germany (ACG), we believe this is our most important strategic partner. It is a valuable relationship - stemming from the Marshall Plan, the Berlin Airlift, Presidents John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan, and America's role in facilitating German unification. We have common interests and share common challenges.
The United States may not work with Germany on every issue, but if it looks at the strategic issues the US faces and at all the countries that we collaborate with to address these challenges, Germany is - at least should be - a critical partner on most issues. Our two countries support one another, learn from one another, and provide important leadership within the European Union and the global community.
Many of today's challenges are just as they are. Migration, urban sustainability, cyber security, digitalization, workforce preparedness, and climate change are just a few of the pressing issues because they are all in our local communities. To tackle these issues, the US needs allies - and Germany is an indispensable partner in helping find solutions to these complex issues.
Through a range of programs and activities, the ACG invests in the German-American relationship, striving to build and strengthen transatlantic networks in business, government, the media, academia, and other fields. Especially when there are tensions between Washington and Berlin, it is important to bring together thought-leaders and practitioners from the state and local level. Through the open and open exchange of ideas and best practices, we can develop solutions to common challenges. But, we can deepen our mutual understanding, overcome differences, address common challenges, and pursue new opportunities.
Our governments always want political differences from time to time, but our mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation will endure because of the shared values and close personal, social, business and cultural ties that have been forged over the past 70 years. We must not, however, take the relationship for granted, nor refrain from being critical or questioning. That should be part of every friendship and partnership.
The tensions to the transatlantic partnership that have been defined are the West for decades, but they are thus creating opportunities. Organizations like the ACG can play a key role in transactional ties and in strengthening German-American bonds at this critical time. The ACG has served as a vital forum for dialogue and engagement across the Atlantic for more than 65 years - and our mission is more important than ever. This relationship is indispensable, but it is not indestructible.
To find out more about our work, visit www.acgusa.org.
Dr. Steven E. Sokol
Unsere Partner
