German President calls for unity in Christmas speech

(CLO) German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in his Christmas speech called on Germans to unite as the country faces many challenges, including the attack on a Christmas market in Magdeburg and upcoming elections.

Mr Steinmeier began his speech by referring to the horrific attack at a Christmas market in the eastern German city of Magdeburg. He also thanked the police and medical staff for their efforts following the incident.

“A dark shadow hangs over this Christmas season,” he said, expressing his deep sympathy for the victims’ families: “You are not alone in your grief. People across the country sympathize and share your loss.”

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Photo: CC/Wiki

Mr. Steinmeier emphasized that in the context of society affected by this tragic event, the German people need to maintain the spirit of solidarity: “Hatred and violence must not be the last word. Do not let us be divided. Let us stand together!”.

In addition to the attack in Magdeburg, the German president also mentioned ongoing conflicts around the world , including war in the Middle East and Russia's attack on Ukraine.

He highlighted Germans’ dissatisfaction with issues such as politics , the economy, complicated and unfair administrative procedures. “The tone in our society has become harsher, sometimes hostile,” he said.

Still, Steinmeier asserted his faith in democracy and the German Constitution, a legal document that has held sway since 1949: “We need to speak frankly about what is wrong. More importantly, we need to discuss what needs to be done immediately.”

At the end of his speech, Mr. Steinmeier sent a message to the country's young generation: "You are indispensable, and that is true in many areas. Germany's young generation can and will find its own path."

Ahead of the German elections in February 2025, Steinmeier stressed that any change in politics would not be the end of the country: “The collapse of the government is not the end of the world. It is an opportunity for us to build and develop a stronger Germany together.”

Cao Phong (according to DW, DPA, EPD, KNA)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/tong-thong-duc-keu-goi-doan-ket-trong-bai-phat-bieu-mung-giang-sinh-post327187.html