[Sponsored Report] Germany and Korea: Strength in friendship

Hans-Ulrich Seidt

On Oct. 3, the same day Koreans celebrate their National Foundation Day, Germany commemorates the Day of German Unity. Both days are of importance to our nations and a moment to count our blessings.

For Germany, 2009 is a very special year, marking not only the 60th anniversary of the foundation of the Federal Republic but also the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.

When the wall came down in November 1989, German unification came about unexpectedly. Hopes were set high, but overcoming economic differences and integrating two different societies proved to be a demanding task. Despite all the hardships, German unification has been a success. It is an honor to celebrate the Day of German Unity with our Korean friends.

This year’s celebration here in Seoul features the city of Dresden, the capital of the free state of Saxony. Dresden has again become a center of the arts and modern technology. Once praised as one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, it was reduced to ashes during the Second World War.

But today, its cityscape, most notably the famous Frauenkirche, has regained its former glory, and Dresden has become a symbol for successful economic reconstruction and spiritual renewal.

During the Cold War, Germany and Korea shared the experience of national division. But German-Korean relations go well beyond this. Our cooperation and friendship began more than 125 years ago with the Treaty of Trade and Friendship between the German Empire and the Kingdom of Korea. It has since evolved into a successful economic, scientific and cultural partnership among friends.

Today, we are together facing new challenges that affect the entire international community. Korea, as host of the G-20 summit in 2010, will play a key role in shaping that future.

I am completely convinced that if we stand and work together, Korea and Germany will master the challenges of the 21st century.

By Ambassador Hans-Ulrich Seidt