The Assistant Secretary of State noted that the linking of the two armies’ at the Elbe was the beginning of the victory over Nazism in World War II.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) – The United States and Russia should not forget what unites the two nations as they can contribute tremendously to world security while working jointly to get through current disagreements, US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Victoria Nuland stated on Friday.

“It is important for all of us, Americans, Russians to remember what joins us,” Nuland said at the “Spirit of the Elbe” commemoration ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.

The “Spirit of the Elbe” memorial was opened in 1995 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Soviet and American troops meeting at the River Elbe in eastern Germany.

“We are both people with an enormous amount to contribute to the security of this planet and we are working hard to get through this difficult patch together.”

Nuland also underscored that Russia and the United States both believe in peace.

The linking of the Soviet and US armies at the River Elbe in Germany on April 25, 1945, is an important event that honors joint efforts for a more peaceful world, Victoria Nuland said.

“This is an important day to remember the sacrifices and remember our joint efforts in defense of a more peaceful world.”

Russian and US official delegations laid flowers at the “Spirit of the Elbe” memorial at Arlington National Cemetery.

“I am honored to be here today with my friend [Russian] Ambassador [Sergey] Kislyak, as together we honor the sacrifices of American young people, of young people from across the Soviet Union, including Russians, Ukrainians, Belarusians,” Nuland said.