In a major speech Thursday at Berlin’s Victory Column, Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) recounted the historic relationship between the United States and Europe and said the “burdens of global citizenship” will continue to bind the two powers together. A “true partnership” between Europe and the United States will require “sharing the burdens of development and diplomacy; of progress and peace,” Obama said.

• Obama called on Europe to provide resources to the war in Afghanistan, saying both the United States and Germany have a “stake in seeing that NATO’s first mission beyond Europe’s borders is a success.”
• Obama also said it is time “renew the goal of a world without nuclear weapons.” He called for a reduction in nuclear arsenals and said all loose nuclear materials must be secured.
• Obama briefly discussed free trade, saying the United States and Europe should “build on the wealth that open markets have created, and share its benefits more equitably.”
• Obama called for Europe and the United States to “come together to save this planet” and to reduce carbon emissions.
• He also said Europe and the United States must stand together in “sending a direct message to Iran that it must abandon its nuclear ambitions.” He also urged support for Lebanon in its quest for democracy, and for “the Israelis and Palestinians who seek a secure and lasting peace.”