More than 800 guests from politics, business, culture and religious communities pre-celebrated America’s 231st birthday with Consul General Eric Nelson. In his remarks he talked about the "Dream Team Bavaria-America" and praised the excellent Bavarian-American economic and political ties. It was also the first birthday of the Munich consulate’s visa section. The visa section facilitates travel of Bavarian exchange students, journalists and professionals to the U.S. by improving the visa application process with latest technology. The Bavarian government was represented by Justice Minister Dr. Beate Merk.