The invitation to the “Advent Café” by the Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa and the Sahel to the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, widely honoured by African Ambassadors and Heads of Mission, generally marks the end of this year’s diplomatic activities.
In his speech, Mr Robert Dölger thanked the circle of Sub-Saharan African Embassies for having “welcomed him into the Group” since his arrival in August and for the good collaboration. He stressed that Africa is at the centre of the German government’s attention and he recalled the few important themes that marked the beginning of his mandate:
- recognition of the German colonial past with the official handover of human remains to Namibia, led by Secretary of State Michelle Münterfering,
- the German ICG (international contact Group) Presidency on Great Lakes issues.
- support for the four countries bordering Lake Chad.
- the implementation of the peace agreement in Southern Sudan.
Finally, he bidded farewell to the Ambassador of Sudan while hailing Sudan’s positive role in this process.
Similarly, they all wish the successful conduct of the second round of presidential elections in Madagascar on 19 December and the peaceful outcomes that will enable to redouble the recovery efforts already under way.
Exchanges of Merry Christmas greetings and a very happy New Year accompanied the Christmas delights, and the “Glühwein” towards the end of the meeting.