German Reconciliation

New Initiatives for European Detente

After almost a quarter-century of living apart, East Germans and West Germans are beginning to talk to each other officially about the possibility of formally recognizing this fact of life. The prospect of a reconciliation between the two Germanys—though not reunification—appeared brighter as the new decade began than perhaps at any time since the land was divided at the close of World War II by victorious Western and Russian armies.

A “regulated neighborliness” with East Germany is one aim of the new West German government of Chancellor Willy Brandt in its desire to establish normal relations with the Communist countries of Eastern Europe. Bonn's “eastern policy” seems to coincide with Moscow's apparent desire for stability in Europe while there is anxiety ...