The President of the United States, Barack Obama, has began one of his final tours as he comes closer to the end of his final term. He has began his tour with Greece, where he will be meeting with President Pavlopoulos, followed by an official dinner in the evening.
After his meetings and press conferences in Greece, President Obama will be heading to Germany to meet with Chancellor Angela Merkel. It is thought that the President will be using this meeting to discuss with one of his closest allies his meeting with Donald trump, earlier this week.
His last tour?
This tour comes at a difficult time for the President after last weeks election. It is thought that he will be trying to keep the peace and assure Europe in general that things will be okay following the news that Donald Trump had become the President Elect.
Chancellor Merkel had responded to this news by saying "Germany and America are bound by common values: democracy, freedom, as well as respect for the rule of law and the dignity of each and every person regardless of their origin, skin color, creed, gender, sexual orientation or political views," she said. Cooperation with the United States, she went on to say, must be “based on these values.”
After the close relationship the two leaders have had over the last eight years, it could be possible that President Obama will be discussing at length with her ways in which she can keep the next President in line and to thank her for her valued aid during his terms.
Last chance to help Europe
The election has sent Europe mostly into a shockwave since last week, evidenced by the statement made by Angela Merkel which can be read above, seeming to offer her congratulations but undertoned with the firmness expected by her that any bigotry or bullying that may be attempted will not be tolerated by Europe.
Other countries reactions could include that of UK Prime Minister Theresa May, who congratulated Mr. Trump and spoke of strengthening the ties between their respective countries.
Lastly, the French President, Francois Hollande also congratulated him, whilst also stating that this election had brought about a period of uncertainty.
I would like to wish President Obama a good trip and hope that his journey will instill the calm that Europe needs during these uncertain times.
