Berlin, Aug 14: German chancellor Gerhard Schroeder
is to speak to the UN General Assembly next month during a
two-day visit in which he may also meet US President George W
Bush, officials said today.
The officials confirmed Schroeder would fly to New York
for a September 23 reception marking the 30th anniversary of
Germany's entry into the world body.
The next day he will address the full assembly at its
annual meeting.
The officials said the chancellor would also have the
chance for bilateral meetings.
Schroeder said yesterday that while there was "currently
no agreement" on direct talks with Bush, "I cannot rule it
out."
Politicians and commentators here have seized on remarks
by Bush last week praising Germany's peacekeeping role in
Afghanistan as a sign that bilateral relations are thawing.
Traditionally strong transatlantic ties had iced over
because of Berlin's spirited opposition to the US-led war
against Iraq.
Bureau Report
