Berlin (d.de) – In his Christmas address, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier called for solidarity and unity in light of the attack on the Magdeburg Christmas market. A “dark shadow” had been cast over this year’s Christmas celebrations, he said in the speech, which was published in advance. “Hate and violence must not have the last word.”
Steinmeier expressed his deepest sympathy with the victims of the attack and their families. “You are not alone with your pain. People all over our country feel and mourn with you,” said the Federal President. Despite the bewilderment and sadness, Steinmeier emphasised the importance of solidarity: “Let’s not allow ourselves to be driven apart. Let’s stand together.” This solidarity was one of Germany’s key qualities, said the Federal President, especially in difficult times. In the face of major international challenges, he called on people to focus on their own strengths. “Community spirit and drive, inventiveness and diligence, courage and ambition – and not least confidence in our own capabilities! We have not lost any of this – it is still thriving among us, I witness it almost every day, and I believe wholeheartedly that it will keep opening doors for us in the future.”
On the failure of the traffic light coalition, Steinmeier said that the Basic Law provided clear paths ahead in such situations. He plans to announce his decision on potential new elections after the holidays. The Federal President’s Christmas speech is traditionally broadcast on 25 December.
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