In a congratulatory telegram today to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Chile, Alfredo Moreno Charme, Foreign Minister Dr Guido Westerwelle declared:

”It was with tremendous relief that I learned of the successful rescue of the 33 miners who had been trapped underground for so long. I would like to congratulate you, your Government, the Chilean people and all who took part in the rescue operation on this exemplary achievement, which was made possible only through the extraordinary dedication to the task shown by all involved and the fortitude of the miners themselves.
The whole of Germany shares the joy of the miners and their families. On behalf of my fellow Germans, I wish the men a speedy recovery and hope for the future.“