Wolfgang Ischinger, German ambassador to the United States, spoke on Trans-Atlantic Relations to a full house at the Fluno Center Wednesday. The ambassador's visit came at a particularly significant time considering the recent tensions between the United States and Germany concerning potential action against Iraq.
Ischinger explained what he labeled \the problem,"" from both the German and United States perspectives, emphasizing his concern for sovereignty and solidarity.
""In my view, America cannot handle the world on its own, even with its military power...power cannot only be measured by [military strength], I think that would be a terrible mistake.""
Ischinger explained Germany's adamant opposition to immediate action against Iraq, but clarified that Germany strongly supports the United States and the war against terrorism.
He emphasized that Germany's opposition to Bush's policy with Iraq does not reflect the nation's feelings towards America.
""Being anti-Bush is not being anti-America, just as being anti-Sharon is not being anti-Semitic,"" Ischinger said.
Germany has been one of the most supportive and involved American allies since the atrocity of Sept. 11, he said. Germany stated that ""the attack was not just against the U.S., but against the whole world, so we must be in solidarity with the U.S.""
For the first time since World War II, Germany deployed soldiers for combat off German soil to support the war on terrorism. Today, Germany has more troops deployed in the war than any other country, excluding the United States.
Ischinger said Germany does not deny that Iraq is a problem, but disagrees with Bush's urgency. He said Germany feels engaging in war with Iraq would distract efforts against terrorism, a more immediate threat.
Ischinger further maintained that initiating a war with Iraq creates a frightening possibility of crisis and violence throughout the Middle East, especially concerning Israeli/Palestinian relations. Germany's geographical proximity to the area creates even more concern and apprehension of military action, Ischinger explained.
""It's in our backyard. We have to be particularly concerned about maintaining stability in the Middle East ... We would like to see a more comprehensive approach to Iraq,"" he said.
UW-Madison senior Jon Bredemus said he felt the ambassador's speech was interesting and informative.
""[Ischinger] made Germany's stance against the war very clear, but did not give much of an alternative, such as bringing in the United Nations, but then again, neither is the U.S.\
