In a world of narratives, where spinning and fake news are elements of some countries’ foreign policy strategy, there is also a need to actively communicate our foreign policy. We are confronted by opponents who, with the help of AI, have come to mix up truth and lies. We see a war raging in the middle of Europe. That is why it was so important to me to travel a lot. Because we do not want to leave the world, those places, to others. Because any gaps we leave in this world will be filled by others. And because, at a time when the lines between truth and lies are becoming more and more blurred, you have to see things for yourself.

We must consistently gear German foreign policy towards the interests of Germany and Europe. This will require focusing on what matters, namely safeguarding the security, freedom and prosperity of Germany and Europe. At the same time, Resolution 1325 with the women, peace and security agenda, the protection of vulnerable groups around the world, and climate and sustainability will, of course, continue to be important components.

In conversations with foreign interlocutors, I’ve heard the desire time and again for more German responsibility, more moderation and also more leadership. That’s why we must do more to ensure that our partnerships around the world function as well as possible. We’re committed to a fully coordinated foreign policy, and I want to exemplify this in my daily work.