Exploring the unique nature of this moment in world history, when Europe and the United States must work together more closely than ever, Philip Zelikow calls for America to reintroduce itself to Europe. Rather than a ceremonial call for renewed partnership, Zelikow thinks that to energize the relationship we need to recognize common challenges and construct a new agenda for action. A historical framework and action agenda have been missing since the end of the Cold War, he says: “it is not enough to work the daily in-box, moving from issue to issue, striking a hundred notes, but making no melody.” Reflecting on the lessons of the past and the opportunities for the future, Zelikow outlines the steps needed to chart a new, harmonious course in European-American relations.

Philip Zelikow is the White Burkett Miller Professor of History at the University of Virginia. He served as executive director of the 9/11 Commission. As a career diplomat, Zelikow served in the U.S. State Department in the 1980s and on the National Security Council staff for President George H. W. Bush. He recently returned to the State Department as counselor in the George W. Bush Administration. In 2001, he directed the Carter-Ford Commission on Federal Election Reform. He has taught public policy and history at Harvard University and has served as director of the Miller Center for Public Policy at the University of Virginia and as director of the Aspen Strategy Group.

Recorded Wednesday, October 29, 2008 at InterContinental Hotel.