1. What is your current assessment of the 'state' of transatlantic relations?

Transatlantic relations have been worse, at moments of extraordinary stress on security issues such as during the “neutron bomb” days. However, the tension in public opinion is worrisome owing in part to divergent styles of government and conceptions of national interest.

2. Do you think that the next decade will bring positive news in the two ‘historical’ pillars of the US-EU relations: security and trade?

It is our task to bring the positive news into the relationship in these two areas. Miami and Florida will have a significant role on the trade agenda.

3. You support the organization of the congress 'Reshaping Transatlantic Relations for the XXIst century: the citizens' perspective' to be held in Miami on November 14th-16th. Do you think that such an event can bring new fresh ideas on the present debate over the transatlantic relations?

The congress has an excellent opportunity to contribute to the transatlantic agenda, initiating intellectual exploration of issues that normally receive only superficial treatment in the European and US media. We expect that the beaches, relaxed atmosphere and even the nightlife will make their own contributions to the dialogue.

4. Is the ‘people-to-people’ cooperation able to open new fields of constructive US-EU cooperation in the coming years? In which way?

People to people cooperation has never been easier, using the internet and telephone. The congress will help initiate personal contact that can be easily maintained electronically.

5. Being the two richest and most democratic areas on the planet, do you think that both the EU and the US societies face a special responsibility regarding globalization on the one hand; and on the other hand, do you think that they will face a growing number of similar challenges in their way towards the next decades?

European and US societies are all experiencing rapid change, much of it related to outside forces. Immigration issues have been dealt with differently. The differing structures of agricultural subsidies, the concepts of state welfare, the senses of moral obligation, and the approach to maintaining order in the world are all aspects of globalization the must be dealt with now and will continue as primary themes into the future.

6. Beyond treaties, organizations, common interests, ... the cooperation between Europeans and Americans is, in the end, a matter of people cooperating with people (politicians, civil servants, businessmen, executives, professors, activists,). How do you assess this 'human factor' today? Should it be improved?

That human factor in all areas is crucial. The Miami Congress has a special role to play in bringing people from diverse areas together - not only government, but also business, education, trade, culture and entertainment.