Welcome
Transatlantic relations
New York city, © photothek.net
Alongside European integration, the transatlantic partnership is the most important pillar of German foreign policy. The United States and Canada are among Germany’s closest allies outside Europe.
Relations with the United States and Canada are based on common values and a shared history. The foundations are formed by the traditionally close cultural, societal, political and economic links, but also shared interests, for example the promotion of peace, stability and security, democracy, the rule of law and human rights. Together with its transatlantic partners, Germany works successfully around the world to promote these issues. Through membership of NATO as a security policy alliance, Europe and North America’s security has been closely interconnected for more than 70 years. Furthermore, Germany is linked to the United States and Canada through an active role in a large number of international bodies and a coordinated approach to protecting and strengthening the rules-based multilateral order.
Crucial for global order and security
Transatlantic cooperation is and will remain a key factor for global order and stability, not least in times of crisis. Against this backdrop, we welcome the close transatlantic coordination on defence and economic policy steps in light of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Other areas of cooperation include the joint commitment to global climate action and to sustainable energy transformation, as well as multilateral cooperation in the field of combating the pandemic. Furthermore, cooperation on global human rights policy, global fair taxation, as well as regulating and setting standards for new technologies, is constantly being stepped up.
Diverse societal ties
How close transatlantic relations are is clear also from the multitude of societal and cultural contacts between Germany and the United States and Germany and Canada. There is a long tradition reaching back to the 1950s of exchange programmes for pupils and students, researchers, artists and athletes. These programmes are among the best-used of all such exchanges worldwide. In addition, New York State in particular is a focal point for the promotion of Jewish culture and for cooperation with Jewish organisations.