German Embassy Washington

The German Embassy Washington is proud to welcome the 2026 cohort of the New Bridge Program — a transatlantic exchange bringing together the next generation of American and German leaders, organized by Atlantik-Brücke

Before departing for a 10-day journey through Brussels, Berlin, and Frankfurt (Oder), the fellows joined us for a reception at the Embassy to kick off their program. As 2026 also marks the five-year anniversary of the program, we were happy to toast to its success with program alumni and other supporting partner institutions.

Over the coming days, they will engage with policymakers, diplomats, researchers, and civil society leaders on some of the most pressing issues of our time — from NATO and transatlantic security to migration, democracy, innovation, and more.

New Bridge is built on a simple but powerful idea: that strong partnerships between the United States and Germany depend on people who know each other, understand each other, and are willing to work together across differences.

We look forward to following their journey. 🇩🇪🇺🇸

🗓️ This week’s fact tile is on managing migration. Germany is taking a dual approach to migration: actively recruiting the skilled workers its economy needs while strengthening border control and reducing irregular arrivals.

Every year, the German Academic Exchange Service (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst – DAAD) enables thousands of American and German students and researchers to exchange classrooms and labs. Knowledge has no borders.

Today, the German Embassy joins our American allies in observing Memorial Day. We honor the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who gave their lives in service to their country.

Their courage, devotion, and selflessness helped shape the world we share today. The bonds between our nations were forged through history, and on days like this, we are reminded how much we owe to those who served. We are grateful. We remember. 🇺🇸🇩🇪

What a send-off! The 5th graders from Garrison Elementary wrapped up their time as our Embassy Adoption Class in style — exploring the Embassy and the Ambassador's Residence, presenting on German culture and history, and even performing a dance to German music. 🎓🇩🇪

Established in 1974, the Embassy Adoption Program is a partnership between DC Public Schools and Washington Performing Arts that gives local students a hands-on window into diplomacy and global connections.

This year's group truly embraced it — and they even got a visit from Ambassador Hanefeld, who was happy to answer questions about his career, his work, and what he loves about Germany and the U.S.🇩🇪 🇺🇸✨