Message of Greeting from German Ambassador Peter Ammon on the occasion of German-American Day, October 6, 2011
Dear Members and Friends of the German-American Societies,
It is a great honor and a pleasure for me as the new German Ambassador to the United States to be able to convey my best wishes to you for the first time on German-American Day.
Many German immigrants and German-Americans have helped shape the United States. They have played important roles in politics, business, and culture. Over four centuries ago, German artisans were already living in Jamestown, Virginia; the industries of many cities were shaped by the German pioneering spirit in the 19th century. Ethnic-German intellectuals had an enormous influence on science and art during the 20th century. German-American Day pays tribute to the contribution all German-Americans have made to the development of this country.
We should not, however, only look back. The traditionally close and friendly ties between Germany and the United States, which rest on shared values and ideals of democracy, preservation of peace, human rights, and the market economy, form the basis for common action in a rapidly changing world.
The German-American societies give life to transatlantic relations and help strengthen them. Stay this course, in the tried and tested manner, but also in new ways. Establish new networks and partnerships with German associations. Show young people the advantages to learning the German language and studying in Germany. Strengthen cooperation with local Germany-oriented business and cultural institutions. Our relations will thus remain fruitful and dynamic.
Thank you for your commitment to German-American friendship. I wish you all a memorable German-American Day.
(© Germany.info)
