Foreign policy is peace policy
Whether Somalia or Afghanistan – in many crises around the world failing state structures are an important factor. Recognizing political and humanitarian crises as early as possible and taking appropriate action is a key goal of German foreign policy. Our bilateral and international commitments are mutually complementary: we see decisions at the United Nations flanking humanitarian aid efforts and strengthening international law as much a priority as fostering international understanding through our cultural relations policy
Globalization has increased the interconnectedness of peoples and countries — the impact of political decisions and economic and social developments is increasingly felt in faraway lands. Efforts to cooperate rather than confront are thus important.
Read more: Topics
Cross-national themes in German foreign policy, including the Middle East Peace Process, the Western Balkans and Transatlantic Relations, as well as global hotspots like Afghanistan.
Read more: Regional focuses
A key component of international law is humanitarian international law. It aims to minimize the suffering caused by war.
Read more: International law
There have to be joint efforts to tackle global challenges - Germany is committed to supporting peace, human rights, freedom, justice and devolopment in the framework of international organizations.
Read more: International organizations
Germany is integrated into the world economy and dependent on its growth to a greater extent than many other countries. More than one in four euros is earned by exporting goods and services and, consequently, more than one in five jobs depends on foreign trade. In view of political conflicts it is truer today, more than ever, that trade and a dense network of economic links create trust and stabilize international relations.
Read more: World economy
Cultural relations and education policy is an essential pillar of German foreign policy. It strengthens intercultural dialogue and aims to interest other countries more in Germany and Europe in the long term. In May, Foreign Minister Steinmeier outlined the future focal points of German cultural work abroad in the German Bundestag and on his trips he works to promote the German partner institutions active in cultural relations and education policy.
Read more: Culture and intercultural dialogue
