The German monetary targeting regime shares many similarities with inflation targeting used in other countries. Germany's approach to monetary targeting is flexible, with a gradual convergence to long-term inflation goals. Monetary policy in Germany has been responsive to real output growth and exchange rate considerations. The country has a strong commitment to transparency and communication of monetary policy strategies to the public. Germany adopted monetary targeting as a choice, not due to external pressure, following the breakdown of the Bretton Woods fixed exchange rate regime.