German Chancellor Angela Merkel visits White House before leaving office

The longtime acquaintances and partners are expected to reaffirm the strong U.S.-Germany bond in the face of global challenges.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel visited the White House Thursday for talks with President Joe Biden. After deciding not to seek another term in office, her trip will likely mark a farewell to Biden. It's a chance for the longtime acquaintances and partners to reaffirm the strong U.S.-Germany bond in the face of global challenges, such as the coronavirus pandemic and rising autocratic influences. "Chancellor Merkel has been a true friend to the United States, a strong advocate for the transatlantic partnership for multilateral cooperation, as well as for our shared priorities," a senior administration official said ahead of the meeting. "In their meeting, I expect that President Biden will convey gratitude for her leadership role, in Europe and around the world, as she prepares to depart the German political stage, following their elections this September." The visit will also be an opportunity for the pair to hash out some areas of concern ahead of the end of Merkel's tenure.