Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has indicated that the recent ruling by the Berlin-Brandenburg Higher Administrative Court is unlikely to alter Germany’s commitments to accepting Afghan nationals under existing local workforce and other relevant programs The court on Monday validated the federal government’s earlier decision to halt processing of applications, including the denial of visas to an Afghan family issued by the Foreign Office earlier this year
Speaking to Welt TV during a visit to Bangalore, India, Minister Wadephul stated, “Where we have made a commitment, we must uphold that commitment” He further clarified that commitments would be revisited should valid concerns arise, such as discrepancies in identity or potential security risks posed by individuals “Naturally, we will not automatically accept such individuals into Germany” he added “However, it also holds true that where Germany has made a promise, Germany will stand by it
The court’s legally binding decision established that prior statements of willingness to accept individuals do not automatically create a legal entitlement to a visa The court asserted the federal government retains significant discretionary powers in such cases, effectively overturning a previous ruling by an administrative court that had favored the applicants