Political Breakfast with Daniel C. Kurtzer

Berlin, November 11, 2010

Daniel C. Kurtzer (Photo: Thomas Koehler)

Ambassador Daniel C Kurtzer, S. Daniel Abraham Professor of Middle East Policy Studies at the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, met with members of the German Bundestag, representatives of federal ministries, government agencies and selected think tanks to discuss the current state of the Israeli-Palestinian talks which were resumed in September 2010. The discussion focused on concrete policy recommendations to the US and the EU. Moreover, Germany's specific contribution to a potential peace settlement was discussed.

Kurtzer remarked that at the moment it was difficult to discern a comprehensive and long-term US strategy for the Middle East. Against the background of the new balance of power in Congress and in the light of the scepticism about the Middle East peace process among the Republicans, it was important that President Obama should press on with his efforts to bring about a rapprochement between Israel and the Palestinians.

He was also hoping that new ideas would emanate from the EU, Kurtzer added. Furthermore, it was important to upgrade the role of the Middle East Quartet, which has recently lost some of its influence.

Körber Foundation regularly invites a small circle of high-ranking actors within Berlin’s foreign policy community to its Political Background Discussions. As in the Bergedorf Round Tables, the discussions take place shielded from the public, so as to enable a confidential, frank, and constructive exchange.