Outgoing US Ambassador Reflects on Strong US-Luxembourg Relations, Future Plans

Chronicle.lu recently had the opportunity to speak with Thomas "Tom" Barrett, the US Ambassador to Luxembourg, as he prepares to leave the Grand Duchy.

Ambassador Barrett presented his credentials to Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg on 10 February 2022. His three-year mandate is now coming to an end (with Stacey Feinberg named his successor). He spoke with Chronicle.lu about his time in Luxembourg and what comes next.

Chronicle.lu: How have you found the experience transitioning from Mayor of Milwaukee to serving as Ambassador to Luxembourg? What were the main differences between the two roles?

Ambassador Barrett: I am lucky that both of these roles share a common, underlying purpose: serving the public - a mission I have been pursuing for my entire career.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine, just days after my credentialling, really defined my role as an ambassador. Since that day, I've worked in lockstep with the Government of Luxembourg to address Europe's greatest security crisis since World War II. I am proud that the United States has led a coalition of over 50 nations to support Ukraine and hold Russia accountable. Together, we have delivered unparalleled aid to Ukraine and imposed sanctions that continue to weaken Russia’s economy. Luxembourg has been a critical partner, particularly through its efforts to freeze Russian assets.

While Russia's aggression in Ukraine marked my transition from mayor to ambassador, my commitment to serving the American people and working closely with allies and partners to deliver meaningful results has remained steadfast.

Chronicle.lu: In our first interview with you, back in early 2022, you mentioned certain priority areas on which to focus during your tenure in Luxembourg, namely strengthening existing US-Luxembourg ties with regard to finance, economic development, climate change, educational exchange programmes, and the space sector. How have bilateral ties evolved/developed in these areas over the past three years?

Ambassador Barrett: Over the past three years, US-Luxembourg ties have strengthened significantly. Economically, US companies are playing a pivotal role in Luxembourg's prosperity, employing over 25,000 people. Luxembourg's status as a global financial hub and its strategic location in Europe continues to attract US investment. A particular highlight for me was US Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen's visit, during which she also commended Luxembourg's progress in investment screening and combating money laundering - critical steps in fostering a stable environment for our bilateral trade and investment.

Innovation has surged in fintech, green tech, and space. This December, we signed a new framework agreement on peaceful space resource exploration, expanding on the 2019 Memorandum of Understanding for civil space activities.

I'm particularly proud of the expansion of the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant programme, which places young American teachers in public schools throughout Luxembourg. This expansion would not have been possible without close partnership with Luxembourg's Ministry of Education, Children and Youth. I’m also thrilled to see so many Luxembourgers pursuing higher education in the United States and getting help achieving that dream through our EducationUSA advising programme.

And in the fight against climate change, Luxembourg's commitment to the US-led Global Net-Zero Government Initiative, formalising our shared goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, stands as a milestone in our climate action efforts.

These examples represent just a few of the many areas where our partnership has grown stronger over the past years, delivering tangible benefits to both of our nations.

Chronicle.lu: Starting in December 2022, you revived the old tradition of hosting the mayors of Luxembourg's municipalities - the first such reception at the US Embassy/Residence since 2016. Why was this important for you, notably in terms of building relations with local politicians?

Ambassador Barrett: As a former mayor, I understand the critical role that local government plays in tackling the issues closest to citizens, not only at the local level but also on a national and global level. Particularly in the context of war on European soil once again, it has been clear that overcoming global challenges requires cooperation at every level of governance. Reviving this tradition of hosting Luxembourg's mayors at the US Embassy was an important step in strengthening relations with local voices and emphasising the value of unity and collaboration. I also know mayors have a special role in strengthening people-to-people connections, especially through initiatives like the Sister City programme which has grown in Luxembourg over the last three years. These programs are crucial for fostering mutual understanding and building lasting partnerships - something that is especially important in today’s complex world.

Chronicle.lu: Last year was also an important year for US-Luxembourg relations from an historical perspective with the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, and you delivered a moving speech at the commemorative ceremony in Luxembourg-Hamm in December. Why do you feel it is important to commemorate such historic events, not least in the context of geopolitical uncertainty/conflict?

Ambassador Barrett: Honouring the sacrifices made for the freedoms we enjoy today is of paramount importance. Prime Minister [Luc] Frieden's speech at the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge Ceremony captured this perfectly. In recalling the song "I’ll Be Home for Christmas", he reflected on how many American soldiers, fighting for Europe's and Luxembourg's freedom, never made it home, as over 19,000 lost their lives in that battle. This is a reality we must never forget, especially as we face today's challenges.

Russia's war in Ukraine has exposed the fragility of peace and reinforced the need for unity in defending our shared values. While NATO is stronger than ever, the war has underscored the importance of continued investment in NATO's capacity to address both emerging and ongoing threats to Transatlantic security. These commemorations remind us of the stakes involved if we fail to do so.

These commemorations also highlight the importance of ensuring young people understand it will be their responsibility to safeguard the peace and stability generations past have worked so hard to achieve. I am proud that the Embassy has supported several initiatives engaging youth, from creating WWII educational videos with the National Military History Museum to developing interactive stories for the Patton Memorial in Ettelbruck. It's essential that we find meaningful ways to involve the next generation in these commemorative traditions, so they continue to honour the values that have shaped our shared history.

In this way, these events urge us to learn from history, stay united today, and invest in a peaceful tomorrow.

Chronicle.lu: Please tell us about any (other) highlights/memories you will take away from your time in Luxembourg.

Ambassador Barrett: There have been so many highlights, it's difficult to choose just one. This past year I was honoured to have participated in nearly 30 commemorations for the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. I remain deeply grateful to the government, communes [municipalities], and organisations for organising these events, which will stay with me forever, especially as I've shared the story of my family connections to the Battle of the Bulge. Being in Luxembourg, where this history unfolded, and witnessing the enduring gratitude for the Americans who liberated Luxembourg, was extremely meaningful. The visits from US presidential and congressional delegations this December reinforced the significance of this shared history to the United States.

Another powerful memory for me was welcoming Uyghur rights activist Rushan Abbas to Luxembourg. She spoke poignantly about the millions of people who have disappeared, and the countless others forced into labor camps by the PRC government, including her own sister. Hearing her personal story brought this issue to life in a way that words on a page never could. Her visit underscored the crucial importance of placing human rights at the centre of everything we do. It was an important reminder that working with authoritarian governments requires a different approach than working with democratic ones - a reminder that we must always proceed with the utmost caution and never forget the gravity of this reality.

Chronicle.lu: How do you (hope to) see the future of relations between Luxembourg and the United States?

Ambassador Barrett: I am confident that relations between Luxembourg and the United States will remain strong and continue to grow. The values we share - freedom, equality, democracy, and respect for human rights - are what will always connect us. Our partnership today extends far beyond our shared history; it's a vibrant and robust relationship built on mutual commitments. Our commitment to NATO ensuring security and stability in this ever-changing world; our commitment to upholding democracy, the rule of law, and human rights worldwide as authoritarian regimes threaten to undermine these values; and our economic partnership that drives innovation and fosters prosperity for both our nations.

I am also confident because the people-to-people and cultural ties between our nations are also exceptionally strong, with both countries supporting cultural exchanges and promoting organisations that preserve our shared history. The potential for even more collaboration is vast. I've previously spoken about the idea of an America House in Luxembourg which could serve as a hub for cultural exchange, educational resources, and engagement with US programmes. This would help forge the next generation of US-Luxembourg partnerships - a vision I hope will one day become a reality.

Chronicle.lu: Last but not least, what can you tell us about your future plans - what (and where) is next for you?

Ambassador Barrett: As I prepare to return to my home in Milwaukee, I leave Luxembourg with a bittersweet feeling. While it's hard to say goodbye, I take comfort in knowing that Wisconsin holds a piece of Luxembourg through the many Luxembourgers who have made it their home. Their contributions have shaped the community, and I look forward to reconnecting with many of them when I return.

I am committed to remaining an active member of my community back home. True change happens through engagement, and I believe in the power of contributing to the world around us. I am also especially looking forward to being a little bit closer to my new grandson.

I leave Luxembourg with deep gratitude for the unforgettable memories and lasting friendships Ive built. This country will always hold a special place in my heart.