America and Germany must stand side by side in the difficult test that is the COVID-19 pandemic, in the fight against global warming and its worldwide consequences, and in the fight against terrorism, declared Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday in a statement on the US presidential elections. We must also work together for an open global economy and free trade, she said. "These are the foundations of our prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic," stated Angela Merkel with conviction.

Congratulations to Joe Biden and Kamala Harris

The Chancellor praised German-American friendship as a treasure. "Many people both here and there embody this German-American friendship. We need to continue to work to preserve it and bring together new generations of Germans and Americans," said Angela Merkel. Germany and the USA are allies within NATO. The two nations share fundamental values, from the dignity of the individual to democracy and the rule of law, and they share interests.

Earlier, the Chancellor had congratulated the President-elect once again. "I congratulate Joe Biden most sincerely on his election as 46^th President of the United States of America." Joe Biden brings with him decades of experience in the fields of both domestic and foreign policy, she said. She also congratulated Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. On Saturday the Chancellor had federal government spokesperson Steffen Seibert convey her initial congratulations on Twitter.

Chancellor Angela Merkel and Joe Biden are no strangers. Joe Biden was Vice President of the United States of America from 2009 to 2017. "I have good memories of fruitful meetings and talks with him," said Angela Merkel. She said she is looking forward to meeting Kamala Harris. "As the first woman to hold this office, and the daughter of two immigrants she is an inspiration for many people, an example of America’s opportunities." She wished them both every success, strength and God’s blessing.

Working together for freedom and democracy

At the start of her statement, Chancellor Angela Merkel looked back at the 30^th anniversary of German reunification. This was a day that would not have been possible without the trust of the Americans. "For that, I will always be grateful," stressed Angela Merkel. "We Germans have witnessed and experienced first hand the important role that the United States of America plays for freedom and democracy in the world," underscored the Chancellor.

We have witnessed and experienced first hand the great significance of the German-American friendship, and the transatlantic partnership – for Germany, for Europe and for the world.

More responsibility for a positive common future

"We Germans and we Europeans know that in the 21^st century, we ourselves need to shoulder greater responsibility in this partnership," said Angela Merkel. The United States is, and will remain, Germany’s most important ally. But it rightly expects Europe to make a greater effort to ensure its own security. "We Europeans have long begun to embark on this path," asserted the Chancellor.