In times of crisis, more than anything else we need strong international institutions and open dialogue. That will be the focus of my trip to Toronto, New York and Brussels.

In Toronto, I will discuss, among other things, the situation in Syria and in eastern Ukraine with the G7 Foreign Ministers. In the case of both conflicts, it is clear that we need constructive input from Russia to achieve a peaceful solution. However, in Toronto we will also explore long-term strategic issues, such as peacekeeping and conflict prevention.

This subject will also be on the agenda at the United Nations. During my talks in New York I will once again be working intensively to canvas support for Germany’s candidacy as a non permanent member of the Security Council. Germany is willing to assume responsibility and make an active contribution to peace and security in the world.

To round off the trip I will be attending the second Brussels Conference on “Supporting the Future of Syria and the region”. The focus will be on humanitarian assistance and aid for the people in the region. I will also reiterate our support for the peace process under the aegis of the United Nations. We urgently need a political solution to this conflict, which has gone on for far too long.