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Foreign Minister Maas on the 70th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift
Foreign Minister Heiko Maas called the Berlin Airlift “not only a logistical feat, but above all an overwhelming gesture of humanity.”
Foreign Minister Heiko Maas issued the following statement today (26 June):
Seventy years ago today – when Germany lay in ruins – the foundations for the German-American friendship were laid. The Western Allies responded to the total blockade of West Berlin with the Berlin Airlift. This was not only a logistical feat, but above all an overwhelming gesture of humanity. Enemies became friends and occupiers became protectors. We owe a debt of gratitude for this to this day.
It is a legacy that obliges us to work together to promote democracy and freedom. We are committed to this responsibility. Our friendship with the people in America will also withstand political differences.
Background information:
The Federal Foreign Office intends to maintain and expand the transatlantic friendship also in politically difficult times. Following the opening of the Thomas Mann House in Los Angeles last week, a broadbased dialogue campaign with American society entitled “Wunderbar Together” will therefore be launched in October this year.