Markets Globalization and Cultures

For this week’s reflection paper, please put yourself in the shoes of Heiko Maas, German Foreign Minister (seen below). Heiko represents the most powerful economy in Europe.  He is surrounded by dependent countries, sometimes bitter, competing national and regional interests, disintegrating European partnerships and now the economic calamity caused by COVID -19 but not as much in Germany due to them responding very aggressively early on when the disease began to spread. Using the knowledge you have acquired so far in the readings, identify three areas he must focus on in the next 2 years.  One item must be a soft skill and the other two are “hard” areas – think trade, regulations etc. Give your rationalization for the soft skill and why it is important, now more than ever.  Where, when will you use it and with whom? For the hard areas, define the goals of each, describe an approach or strategy to make them effective and finally, how, where, and when should he (you) best present them to the world.  This is a creative exercise in real world diplomacy.  Points go to well thought out, viable ideas and not just reflective writing to complete the assignment.