Four years ago, the joint program of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), referred to the United States as Germany's "most important friend" outside of Europe. The 2013 program also emphasized the importance of the "friendship" with Washington as a key aspect of Germany's international relations, focusing on enhancing transatlantic economic ties by eliminating trade barriers. However, the latest election program, titled "For a Germany in which we live well and happily," presented by Merkel and CSU leader Horst Seehofer on Monday ahead of the September 24 election, does not include the terms "friend" or "friendship." Instead, the United States is referred to as Germany's "most important partner" outside of Europe. CDU officials were unavailable for immediate comment on the change in language. The change in wording highlights the deteriorating relations between Berlin and Washington since President Donald Trump took office in January. Trump criticized Merkel during his campaign for "ruining" Germany with migration policies he called "insane". He has also criticized Germany's trade surplus, accused European partners of owing money to NATO, and caused concern among western allies by withdrawing from the Paris climate accord. A recent survey by the Pew Research Centre showed that only 35 percent of Germans have a positive view of the United States, compared to 57 percent at the end of President Obama's term. Merkel is set to host Trump and other leaders at a G20 summit in Hamburg later this week. Instead of focusing on strengthening economic ties as mentioned in the 2013 passage, the 2017 program highlights historical US support for Germany post-World War Two and before German reunification. The new CDU/CSU election program also echoes a statement made by Merkel in Munich after a challenging G7 summit where Trump opposed staying in the Paris agreement. The program emphasizes the need for Europeans to take control of their own destiny as reliance on others is no longer as reliable. Additionally, the program reaffirms Germany's dedication to the NATO alliance while stressing the importance of the EU being able to defend itself independently for long-term survival. The text includes a new section titled "Germany and France as the Engine of Europe," which aims to strengthen the relationship between the two countries. It expresses willingness to work with the new French government to enhance the euro zone, such as by establishing a separate monetary fund. However, it rejects the idea of sharing debt in Europe and emphasizes that solidarity will be contingent on EU countries adhering to the rules of the bloc's Growth and Stability Pact.