US President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have signed the “Washington Declaration” recording the results of their meeting.
“The agreement we have signed is a document that affirms our commitment to the firm democratic principles that form the foundation of our countries, as well as the fact that we will apply them to meet the significant challenges of the present and the future,” Biden said at a joint press conference.
“We will strive to strengthen democratic principles and universal rights at a time when we see China or any other country seeking to breach free and open societies,” Biden said, as reported by DW.
The document mentions the creation of a German-American forum and economic dialogue. The declaration also states that the US and Germany consider NATO the main element in ensuring Europe’s security and underscore their commitment to the principle of collective defence.
During the meeting, a document was signed on partnership in the energy sector and on climate protection.
The Washington visit was Merkel’s last visit to the US as Chancellor.
Biden highly praised the Chancellor’s efforts in developing transatlantic relations. In his words, Angela Merkel took an active part in building modern relations between Germany and the US.
