Despite significant budget cuts impacting Germany’s development cooperation, the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development aims to maintain its role as a “reliable partner” on the global stage.
Speaking on Monday evening, Development Minister Reem Alabali Radovan emphasized the ministry’s focus on crisis prevention, peacebuilding and addressing pressing global challenges. She asserted that the remaining €10 billion allocated for development cooperation represents a substantial sum.
The Minister highlighted the importance of fostering local opportunities, aiming to prevent forced migration and ensure individuals have reasons to remain in their communities. She also stressed the need to support neighboring countries that are currently hosting large numbers of refugees. “Migration does not end at our borders; we must think about this internationally” she stated.
Acknowledging the withdrawal of the United States from development aid, Minister Alabali Radovan cautioned that neither Germany nor the European Union can fully compensate for this shift. She underscored the need for increased private investment and a greater emphasis on investment by developing nations themselves, particularly through the implementation of equitable tax systems.
Beyond financial resources, she further emphasized that a range of tools and instruments are crucial in achieving sustainability goals, signifying a comprehensive approach to international development.