The citizens of Germany today celebrated their anniversary of German reunification.
Germany was a founding member of the European Community in 1957. Later, it became the EU in 1993. It is also a member of the United Nations, NATO, the G8, the G20, the OECD and the Council of Europe. Germany took a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2011-2012 term, according to Wikipedia.
US Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, speaking in Washington, DC, extended the congratulations of President Obama and the people of the United States, to the people of Germany.
“Just over 20 years ago, Germany’s reunification was not a foregone conclusion. Today, the story of Germany inspires countries around the world. You eradicated old prejudices and borders and came together as a nation.” -Ms. Clinton
Ms. Clinton stated that over the last 20 years, Germany has committed to building a strong, peaceful country and
they have influenced countless others to do the same. She said the German people are foundation for the European Union and NATO. She added that in almost every corner of the globe, from the Middle East, to Asia, to South America, Germany stands as a powerful force for democracy and human rights.
“I hope this anniversary is a time for every German to reflect on how far your country has come. You should be proud of the example you have set. I send my deepest congratulations and look forward to strengthening our cooperation even more as we work to build a more peaceful and prosperous world.” -Ms. Clinton
Germany has a network of 229 diplomatic missions abroad and maintains relations with more than 190 countries. It is the largest contributor to the budget of the European Union and the third largest contributor to the UN as of 2011. It is a member of NATO, the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the G8, the G20, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Germany has maintained a strong alliance with France since the end of World War II.
