Transatlantic Links - A Continuing Necessity or Just an Option?
Abstract
After the Cold War the transatlantic link between Europe and America is no longer self-explanatory. The allies focus increasingly on internal problems and prosperity of their own countries. Traditional alliances and partnerships seem to play a diminished role. However, this dividing trend is countered by a number of new problems, uncertainty about the future, and a worldwide interrelation in many facets of political, economic, social, and technological life. The state is no longer able to solve problems within an isolationist approach. From this perspective, partners have to be found. Because of their common history, common belief and value system, and common ideological basis, Europe and America are natural partners. On this common ground a multidimensional transatlantic partnership should be established. Structures of this partnership rely on traditional organizations like NATO, additionally however, transatlantic links have to be modernized. Both partners, America and Europe, will have advantages from this. Both, however, will have to make contributions: the Americans by being prepared to take the lead, the Europeans by overcoming their traditional antagonisms, by taking over burdens and responsibilities, and by developing a European identity.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA313557
Entities
People
- Ansgar Rieks
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School