During a visit with his Czech counterpart, Petr Pavel, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier underscored the significance of continued collaboration between Germany and the Czech Republic. Speaking at a reception held at Bellevue Palace on Wednesday, honoring the winning teams of a German-Czech video competition titled “Never Again” Steinmeier highlighted the progress made since the German-Czech Declaration of 1997, noting the extensive steps taken toward reconciliation and historical reflection.
“Our two nations are now closely and amicably connected – economically, culturally, in cross-border cooperation, across numerous levels and notably within the European framework” Steinmeier stated. He emphasized that Europe fosters peace, freedom and solidarity amongst its member states.
Reflecting on the history of European unification, Steinmeier remarked on the often-challenging journey towards a lasting peace. He affirmed that this history fulfills the promise of a continent free from war and inhumane conflict, a vision encapsulated in the competition’s refrain of “Never Again”. He urged continued commitment to this ideal, advocating for a Europe built on the foundations of law, democracy and mutual understanding.