Steinmeier pays tribute to Brandt's importance for relations with Finland
During a joint visit to the Willy Brandt Forum in Unkel (Neuwied district), Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Finnish President Sauli Niinistö emphasized the importance of Brandt for the relationship between the two countries. Steinmeier said on Thursday that Brandt's policies had made it possible for Germany and the GDR to become members of the United Nations. "With the integration of the former GDR and the Federal Republic of Germany into the United Nations, it was formally possible for Finland to establish and initiate diplomatic relations. Therefore, this is a very important place for German-Finnish relations."
"This is what we have been celebrating for 50 years now," added Niinistö. Willy Brandt was a friend of Finland. The Finnish President's visit is intended to honor the close partnership between Germany and Finland. The two countries established diplomatic relations 50 years ago as a result of Willy Brandt's then new German Ostpolitik.
Brandt's widow, Brigitte Seebacher, was also present during the visit to the Willy Brandt Forum. The former German Chancellor lived in Unkel am Rhein from 1979 to 1992. Steinmeier and Niinistö signed the Golden Book of the town of Unkel at Brandt's original desk during the tour. The two were received with applause from the townspeople on the square in front of the Forum. Steinmeier and Niinistö had already visited North Rhine-Westphalia on Wednesday.
The Federal President's tribute to Brandt's role in relations with Finland underscores the significance of his diplomacy in the context of international relations, as Brandt's policies paved the way for Finland to establish diplomatic ties with the newly united Germany within the United Nations.
Recognizing Brandt's influence in international diplomacy, the current Federal President and Finnish President continue to uphold the spirit of their nations' close partnership, engaging in dialogue aimed at fostering peace and understanding between their countries.
Source: www.dpa.com
