[LETTERS to the editor]A superb partnership

The global economy is being driven by a powerful engine: the countries in the Asia-Pacific region. German businesses have recognized the boom in Asia as an opportunity, because the economies in Europe and Asia complement each other superbly.
This dynamic region, home to more than half of the world’s population, will have a major impact on the future of our world.
Asia is moving closer together, both economically and politically. As it does so, the region is drawing on the example of the success story of European unification; its security, stability and prosperity are serving as a model. There is a great interest in stable partnerships, both in the Asia-Pacific and in Europe.
The 11th Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business, which will be held from Oct. 4 to 6 in Seoul, will consolidate and deepen the fruitful economic ties with the region.
The motto of the conference, “Partnership, Innovation and Sustainability,” is also reflected very well in the relations between Korea and Germany.
The friendly and trusting relationship between our two countries has a tradition stretching back over more than a hundred years, since diplomatic relations began in 1883, and it offers a good foundation for continuing successful cooperation between German and Korean business.
We celebrate Unity Day in Germany on Oct. 3. I am convinced that unification to form one Korea can happen, and that we will be able to master the global challenges of the future together.
Michael Glos, federal minister of economics and technology of Germany