On July 13, GMF hosted CSU Bundestag Leader Dr. Peter Ramsauer for a presentation and discussion on transatlantic cooperation. The event touched on a wide range of issues important on both sides of the Atlantic, from the NATO mission in Afghanistan to the United States' proposed missile defense system.  The discussion offered an opportunity to reflect on the recently-concluded German EU Presidency.  David Kramer, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, provided the response. 

The speakers gave an overview of both transatlantic and U.S.-German relations, sharing multiple perspectives on NATO engagement in Afghanistan, the future of Kosovar independence, and the importance of economic ties between the United States and Europe.  In addition to analyzing U.S. and German perspectives on these issues, the speakers also elaborated on the Russian position on missile defense and the independence of Kosovo. 

After the presentations, a discussion followed among the fifty-person audience, with participants from numerous European embassies, foundations, and the think tank community contributing provocative questions and comments.  Though numerous topics were covered during Dr. Ramsauer and Mr. Kramer's initial remarks, the conversation which followed gravitated towards three main issues: shifting leadership within Europe and its impact on the transatlantic relationship; the European and German perspectives on U.S. plans for a missile defense system in Europe; and the effects of the continuing military presence in the Middle East.  The discussion with Dr. Ramsauer and Mr. Kramer offered a unique opportunity for insight into German, European, and U.S. perspectives on issues central to U.S.-European cooperation.