But there is a big difference between geology and geopolitics: while the continental drift between the United States and Europe cannot be slowed or halted, the political distance between them is neither inevitable nor irreversible. To bridge the divides, we have to talk to each other.
That is why events like today’s – and the activities by the Council on Foreign Relations and the American Council on Germany in general – are so important. I would like to thank you for inviting me here today. It is a great pleasure to be part of a debate with such a distinguished audience.