speeches by amb. coats

Berlin, Tegel Airport
September 7, 2001

Good morning.

It is a very great pleasure that Marsha Coats and I are here in Berlin. We are glad to be here. I'm honored that President Bush has called on me to serve as the next Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany. Our two countries enjoy a unique and very special relationship. We have deep bonds of friendship, and we share many common goals and certainly a vision of a dynamic and democratic Europe.

Our partnership both with Germany and with Europe is one that we value very much. I know President Bush values that partnership, and I know the American people value that partnership. During the difficult days of the Cold War, and during this last decade of extraordinary change, when Germany and the American people have been united in purpose, they have been a strong voice for peace and prosperity.

Marsha and I look forward to meeting Germans from all walks of life. We want to listen, with respect, and we want to learn from them. I know and I believe that a strong bipartisan relationship between our country and Germany demands no less, and we very much look forward to that.

Thank you.