The topping out ceremony or “Richtfest” of the New Philippine Embassy in Berlin, Germany, located at Luisenstrasse 16, 10117 Berlin (formerly Charitéstrasse 7) was held on 18 January 2018. The “Richtfest” is a German tradition that is traced back to the 14th century. It has two important aspects: one, it signifies that the raw construction and the roof have been completed and the roof tiles will soon be installed. The other aspect of a Richtfest is that it a gesture of thanksgiving to all the ... Read more

In his 12 January New Year’s address to the diplomatic corps at the Bellevue Presidential Palace, Federal President Joachim Gauck emphasized the importance of countries to work together and not be overcome by fear nor be “intimidated by terrorism.” He called on all to put their trust in the tools of diplomacy and to strengthen and protect the rule of law. “Persistent, quiet diplomacy can resolve…long-running conflicts in the end… Our solidarity as democrats and as Germans, does not become ... Read more