WASHINGTON: In a meeting meant to reflect the importance of US-Germany, Kamala Harris will hold talks with Chancellor Angela Merkel at the residence of the vice president on Thursday, the first time he hosted a foreign leader at the Naval Observatory since he took.
At their breakfast meeting, Harris intends to emphasize the need for allies to face various global challenges, from the Pandemic Coronavirus and climate change on the threats posed by Russia and China.
“It underscores the special nature of this partnership and the special role of America in the world that he is able to hold it at his home,” said Phil Gordon, representative of the National Advisor Vice President, told the Associated Press.
Harris and Merkel will also discuss the need to promote and defend democracy at home, “admit, frankly, that we face challenges in our own country and we need to discuss it,” Gordon said.
Also expected to emerge is US withdrawal from Afghanistan, as well as the role of NATO and Germany in maintaining stability in Afghanistan afterwards.
Merkel will visit the White House later on Thursday to meet President Joe Biden.
The session is expected to cover many of the same problems, in addition to Nord Stream 2 gas pipes from Russia to Germany, whose administration opens.
Harris and Merkel were the first women to serve in their respective positions, and Chancellor highlights Harris’s background when offering congratulations after the victory of Biden elections in November.
“As the first woman in this office and the child of two immigrants, he is an inspiration for many people, an example of American opportunities,” Merkel said.
“I look forward to knowing him.”