[Letters] Finding a way toward unity and freedom

In 1989, the courageous population in the East cast off the chains of oppression and fought successfully for freedom, democracy and, in the end, the reunification of our country. Today, 22 years later, we are thankful that our country has come into its own, mindful of what has been accomplished over the past decades.

Today, post-reunification Germany’s place alongside its partners in Europe and around the world is firmly established. Thus, the Day of German Unity is always an occasion to look back in a spirit of thankfulness and joy on what has been achieved so far. We want to live up to the international role that our country has gradually acquired, partly on the basis of our economic strength, but above all on the basis of the reliability we have demonstrated over decades. We want to take on responsibility. This is expected of us.

In light of our past history we take these expectations a great sign of trust. Germany and Korea have maintained friendly relations for more than 125 years. Germany is following the political developments on the Korean Peninsula with deep sympathy and fully supports the efforts of the Korean government to bring peace and prosperity to all Koreans.

Together with our Korean friends we hope that also the Korean people will find its way toward unity and freedom.

* Rolf Mafael Ambassador designate of Germany in South Korea