German-Saudi ties can see yet more progress

German reunification on Oct. 3, 1990, stands as one of the most joyous moments in our nation’s history. It continues to be a source of pride and celebration for all Germans. After enduring the devastation of the Second World War and decades of division, we were able to restore our unity.

This year, we mark the 34th anniversary of that historic moment. Additionally, we celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This milestone represents not only seven decades of diplomatic ties, but also a long-standing bond of friendship, cooperation and mutual respect between our two nations.

The link between German Unity Day and the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia centers on unity, partnership and historical significance. Strong relations, whether within a nation or between countries, are crucial for overcoming challenges and fostering progress, ultimately contributing to a more stable, prosperous and interconnected world.

Our relationship with Saudi Arabia has grown and evolved over the decades, adapting to the changing global landscape and the needs of our peoples. From economic partnership to cultural exchange and from technological innovation to educational collaboration, the bond between Germany and Saudi Arabia has been characterized by a shared commitment to progress and development.

In the economic sphere, our bilateral trade has thrived, with Germany being one of Saudi Arabia’s key trading partners. German companies have been instrumental in the development of Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure, energy sector and industrial capacity. Today, more than 800 German businesses are active in the Kingdom, significantly contributing to the realization of Vision 2030 and supported by the German-Saudi Arabian Liaison Office for Economic Affairs. Likewise, Saudi investments in Germany have contributed to the growth and diversification of both our economies.

Building on this strong foundation, we are also preparing for the future: our countries share the ambitious goal of net-zero emissions, by 2045 for Germany and 2060 for Saudi Arabia. This requires a thorough global energy transition and joint efforts. The visit by German Economic Affairs and Climate Action Minister Robert Habeck to Saudi Arabia earlier this year has shown that we can join forces during this transformation.

The bond between the two countries has been characterized by a shared commitment to progress and development. 

Michael Kindsgrab

Implementing the Paris Agreement is a great responsibility, but also one that opens up new windows for Saudi-German technological and scientific collaboration and economic cooperation. The German Hydrogen Diplomacy Office here in Riyadh plays an important role in this regard and facilitates our joint efforts in the field of hydrogen and renewable energies. It is my conviction that our shared commitment and good collaboration will open up new ways into a future that is both sustainable and prosperous.

Education has always been a cornerstone of our partnership. The German International School in Riyadh, established 50 years ago, continues to serve as a symbol of our educational cooperation. Initiatives such as scholarships through the German Academic Exchange Service and the medical partnership between Saudi Arabia and Berlin’s Charite Hospital have enriched young minds in both nations, fostering long-lasting friendships.

Cultural exchanges have further strengthened our bonds. From art exhibitions to music festivals, these initiatives allow Germans and Saudis to experience and appreciate each other’s rich cultural heritage. Notably, during the premiere of the first Saudi opera in Riyadh in April, the German Dresden Symphony Orchestra provided the musical score. The Goethe-Institut in Riyadh also plays a key role in cultural engagement, with many Saudis eager to learn German.

And the German Archaeological Institute, which has been active in Saudi Arabia for 20 years, demonstrates every day how joint research into the past can open up new avenues of cooperation in the future. The institute contributes to preserving Saudi Arabia’s archaeological heritage and promoting the cultural significance of AlUla on the global stage, aligning with Vision 2030.

Last but definitely not least, in sports, German coach Monika Staab currently serves as the technical director of Saudi Arabia’s national women’s football team. Similarly, Matthias Jaissle contributes to the advancement of football through his coaching of the Saudi club Al-Ahli.

As we celebrate this 70th anniversary, we have plenty of reasons to look ahead with optimism. But we also have to take a sober look at the challenges confronting us. Germany remains steadfast in its commitment to global security and stability. This focus is reflected in our contribution to international crisis management and the development of our first National Security Strategy last year — a major step forward for our country.

As we celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations, we have plenty of reasons to look ahead with optimism. 

Michael Kindsgrab

And speaking of security, the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the escalating security concerns between Lebanon and Israel demand our full attention and efforts to de-escalate. This is why our Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock traveled to the Middle East again in early September to engage in talks with her Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan. It is crystal clear: there is no military solution for either Gaza or the situation in the West Bank. We need to end the violence, the hostages must be released and we need a humanitarian ceasefire and a commitment to the two-state solution. We fully support Palestinians’ right to self-determination. At the Israeli-Lebanese border, we need UN Security Council Resolution 1701 to be implemented, so that people on both sides of the Blue Line can return to their homes.

The suffering of civilians in the aftermath of Hamas’ attack is unacceptable. This is why Germany is one of the biggest donors of humanitarian aid in the region. We are also working closely with Arab countries to explore how the reconstruction of Gaza might unfold and how a new political, administrative and security order can be established.

Russia’s illegal war of aggression has underscored the vulnerability of our security, prompting us to rethink and reinforce our efforts to safeguard it. This recognition continues to shape our policies and priorities. The consequences of Russia’s war do not halt at Ukrainian or European borders. Russia’s violation of international law endangers global security. It is important that countries stand up for the sovereignty of states and their territorial integrity. Germany did not hesitate to do so when Saddam Hussein attacked Kuwait in 1990, threatening not only Kuwait but the stability of the whole region.

While we all strive for peace, it is now crucial to support Ukraine’s efforts to promote a comprehensive, just and lasting peace, with respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Therefore, Germany has become the second-largest supporter of Ukraine in the world and the largest supporter of Ukraine in Europe. Not because we are looking for confrontation with Russia, but because we want Russia’s aggression to end and to see peace and security to return to Europe.

Germany very much welcomes the two important conferences on Ukraine hosted by Saudi Arabia in Jeddah and Riyadh. They form part of the Kingdom’s ongoing mediation efforts, which we highly appreciate.

In a world where no nation can stand alone, alliances and partnerships are essential in overcoming global challenges — whether questions of war and peace, climate change, economic and technological cooperation or simply people-to-people contacts. I look forward to deepening German-Saudi cooperation and building an even brighter, more secure future. After my first year in the Kingdom, I am convinced there is a lot of progress to look forward to.

• Michael Kindsgrab is the German Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.