I hope that is not the reason behind the Brexit vote. In any case, it may not even be true – I have always felt there is a great deal of mutual respect between our two nations. Actually, I am rather convinced that the British and the Germans put an equal emphasis on the mutual friendship and partnership.
Yet, in times of Brexit and stalled international cooperation, we have to find new grounds for continued friendship and cooperation. When politics becomes emotional and confrontational, close personal ties and an understanding of where the other side is coming from are more important than ever. That’s why today’s event is important to me.