Steinmeier: Germany is reliant on immigration
At a naturalisation ceremony, German President Steinmeier stresses Germany’s opportunities and historical responsibility.
Cologne/Berlin (dpa) - German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has paid tribute to people from other countries who take German citizenship, describing them as an enrichment for Germany. “Without these naturalisations, our country would not only be poorer in many respects, it would also have much less chance of a good future,” Steinmeier said at a naturalisation ceremony in Cologne. He said that clear rules for migration to Europe were needed. “But the whole truth is that Germany will also be reliant on immigration.”
Steinmeier talked about the special responsibility that Germans have as a result of their history, especially the history of anti-Semitism, racial fanaticism and genocide. “Anyone who becomes German also takes on the historical legacy of our country. Every German must know Auschwitz. And must know what made Auschwitz possible in the first place. Every German must understand that the memory of this creates a lasting obligation for us all - and the responsibility that results from this.” The state and society must take racism seriously and take resolute steps to fight hatred and discrimination, he added.