Steinmeier in MV: Ambassador trip with a focus on security and love of homeland

Steinmeier in MV: Ambassador trip with a focus on security and love of homeland

Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania on Tuesday, June 24th and brought with him over 130 ambassadors from various countries. This diplomatic trip not only served to represent Germany, but also dealt with important international issues. Steinmeier spoke about the situation in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict caused by Russia's war of aggression on Ukraine. He described the current times in international politics as “anything but cheerful,” which certainly did not go unnoticed by his listeners. Steinmeier also appealed to Iran to return to the negotiating table and to turn away from nuclear weapons, as the federal government did before. These are topics that have become increasingly pressing in the political debate in Germany since the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, which took place on October 7, 2023.

Together with Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig, who praised the natural beauty of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and the Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Nikola Eterović, who addressed the challenges after reunification, the role of diplomacy in times like these was discussed at lunch in Ulrichshusen Castle. Steinmeier highlighted the positive developments in the region since German reunification, while he wanted to explain Germany's diversity to diplomats.

Schools in focus

The debate about school education, which was also a central point during the trip, is particularly exciting. Schools are in direct contact with the emotions triggered by international conflicts. In Germany, teachers and students are feeling the effects of the Middle East conflict: sadness, anger and tensions are manifesting themselves in the playgrounds and in the classroom. The discussion about anti-Semitism and racism is more relevant than ever and requires clear action from school authorities to ensure safe learning for all students.

In a round table discussion on the topic of peace and integration, teachers, education politicians and representatives of education initiatives were invited to discuss the situation in schools. It is emphasized that the state and society must ensure that Jewish people in particular can feel safe in Germany. A look at the school hallways shows that people with Palestinian, Arab or Turkish roots often feel excluded, which makes dialogue about diversity in society very necessary. Steinmeier encourages people to confront prejudices and resentments in order to promote peaceful coexistence. Both the handling of provocative statements in the classroom and the preparation and support for teachers are at the forefront of these efforts.

A look into the future

The reception on the sailing training ship “Gorch Fock” in Warnemünde was the ceremonial conclusion to an informative day. Steinmeier was positive about the participation of around 70 percent of the ambassadors accredited in Berlin and announced that he would repeat the trip next year. All of these activities serve to put the love of home and the impressive developments in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania in the right light. With a clear call for cooperation and a strong commitment to democracy and diversity, the region is perceived not only as a family, but also as an indispensable part of the international community.

What the future of schools in Germany and especially in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania will look like remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the challenges are great, but so is the willingness to overcome them together. Steinmeier and the diplomats hope for a positive development – ​​both in the classroom and on an international level.