Treaty Signed for German Reunification
September 12th, 1990
September 12th, 1990

How Long Ago?
34 years, 6 months, 2 days ago
Location
Moscow, Russia
Category
Politics & Government
People
- James Baker
- Douglas Hurd
- Hans-Dietrich Genscher
- Lothar de Maizière
- Georgy Shakhai
- Roland Dumas
Links & References
Tags
Treaty Signed for German Reunification
The Treaty on the Final Settlement with Respect to Germany was signed in Moscow by representatives of the two German states, the Federal Republic of Germany and the German Democratic Republic, as well as the Four Powers: the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and the Soviet Union. This significant agreement marked the formal conclusion of World War II's implications for Germany and set the framework for its reunification. The signing symbolized a shift towards a unified Germany and stable Europe, addressing territorial and political issues that had persisted since the war.
Treaty finalized Germany's post-WWII status.
Signed by two German states and four Allied powers.
Set terms for Germany's reunification and sovereignty.
Influenced the future stability of Europe.
What Happened?
In a pivotal moment for Europe, representatives from both German states met in Moscow to sign the Treaty on the Final Settlement with Respect to Germany. This treaty, sometimes referred to as the Two Plus Four Agreement, included the two Germanies—West Germany (Federal Republic of Germany) and East Germany (German Democratic Republic)—alongside the four Allied Powers: the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and the Soviet Union. The negotiations took place amidst a rapidly changing political landscape in Europe following the end of the Cold War, where the fall of the Berlin Wall had already set the stage for a newfound unity among Germans.
The treaty effectively marked the end of the post-World War II division of Germany that lasted for over four decades. Key provisions of the treaty included the full sovereignty of a reunified Germany, the withdrawal of foreign troops, and guarantees regarding Germany's borders and security arrangements. The treaty was a significant diplomatic triumph, showing cooperation among former adversaries and underscoring a commitment to peace and stability in the region. The event not only had lasting ramifications for German politics but also reshaped the geopolitics of Europe.
The signing was celebrated by many as a major step towards stability in Europe, allowing Germany to finally take its place as a sovereign nation within the international community. The treaty also paved the way for the official reunification of Germany, which occurred later in the same year, solidifying a profound transformation in the continent after decades of division and hostility. This agreement was critical in addressing the wounds left by both the Nazi era and the subsequent division of the country during the Cold War, thus laying the foundation for future European integration.
Why Does it Matter?
This treaty is significant as it not only facilitated the reunification of Germany, but it also symbolized a changing Europe post-Cold War. It established the framework for future European cooperation and integration by asserting a commitment to democratic governance and territorial integrity. The effects of this agreement reverberated through both political and social spheres as Germany transitioned into a leading European power.
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