In the case of Schroeder, there was a great deal of concern that they were thinking more about differences rather than commonalities.

There is a culture of pessimism in Germany. There is a sense that something can go wrong and they tend to look around for it.

There is a culture of pessimism in Germany.

I don't think that we here in Washington should escalate our expectations that her parameters would be significantly bigger than Schroeder's.

I don't think that we here in Washington should escalate our expectations that her parameters would be significantly bigger than Schroeder's,

If the administration representatives are honest they'll tell you 'Well this is a fresh start and Merkel's victory would be a good thing',