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Obama Compelled to Remind Germany of His Big 2008 Berlin Speech

April 25, 2016

President Obama, never shy to talk about himself and his greatness, was compelled Monday to mention his famed 2008 speech in Berlin at the beginning of a speech in Hannover, Germany.

Then a U.S. Senator from Illinois and a media darling as a presidential candidate, Obama was greeted by an enormous crowd of 200,000 in July of 2008 during a tour of Europe that contributed to his global fame.

"I have to admit that I have developed a special place in my heart for the German people," Obama said. "Back when I was a candidate for this office, you welcomed me with a small rally in Berlin, where I spoke the change that's possible when the world stands as one."

The crowd did not laugh at this bit of false modesty.

"As president, you've treated me and Michelle and our daughters to wonderful hospitality," he said. "You've offered me excellent beer ... You've now hosted our delegation here in Hannover. My only regret is that I have never been to Germany for Oktoberfest. So I will have to come back, and I suspect it's more fun when you're not president, so my timing will be good."

Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel promoted a Trans-Atlantic trade deal during his visit, and the two leaders also discussed the crises in Ukraine, Syria and Libya.

Published under: Barack Obama , Germany