“I hear the call for greater German responsibility”

Mr Wadephul, what are the foreign policy priorities for your term in office?

I would like to resolutely align German foreign policy and thus the activities of the Foreign Office with the interests of Germany and Europe. To concentrate on the essentials, so to speak. And these in my view include maintaining our security, our freedom and our prosperity. We will only achieve this if we are fully committed to expanding our global partnerships. In conversations with international colleagues, I have for years been hearing the desire for greater German responsibility, greater moderation and also greater leadership – not just in Europe. That is where I want to start, because it forms the core of the craft of diplomacy. And it’s something that our German diplomats are extremely good at.

In light of the global upheavals: What role in your view should Germany in future assume in Europe and the world?

The current crisis situation, which we experience every day in the evening news, means we need a clear focus on our interests as Germans and Europeans. Today, 80 years after the end of the Second World War, our freedom and prosperity in Europe can no longer be taken for granted or considered secure. That’s why we’re so united with our partners and allies in defending these values and standing up for our freedom.

How will German foreign policy deal with an authoritarian state like Russia? And China?

With a clear focus on our interests. With regard to Russia, our long-term security currently requires us to stand firmly behind Ukraine and help it end this terrible war that Russia is waging every day with extreme brutality. And also to China we say clearly: This war affects core European interests. Support for Russian aggression is contrary to these. China is a permanent member of the UN Security Council and therefore bears a particular responsibility for world peace. Fundamentally, China continues to be a partner, competitor and – increasingly in recent times – a systemic rival. We therefore seek to and must implement our de-risking strategy more consistently.

How do you see the future of our transatlantic relationship?

Our transatlantic partnership is based on close, historically rooted relations. We have shared experiences, interests and values. It is in Germany’s interest and that of Europe, but also of the United States of America and Canada, that our alliance continues. It has guaranteed peace, stability and prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic for many decades. This shared foundation is particularly important in challenging times. It is precisely because our relationships are so close that we can interact and communicate with each other clearly and confidently. We want to further develop this partnership so that it remains attractive and sustainable for both sides in the future. Especially when we disagree on individual issues.