HE Juergen Schulz Celebrates German Unity Day, Highlights Egypt’s Popularity Among German Tourists
By Doaa Mohamed
The German Embassy in Cairo recently hosted a grand celebration to mark the German Unity Day, attended by a wide array of diplomats and ambassadors. German Ambassador to Egypt, Jürgen Schulz, delivered a keynote speech highlighting the deep ties between Germany and Egypt across various sectors, including political, economic, cultural, and educational collaborations. Here are the key takeaways from his remarks.
A Deep-Rooted Partnership Between Germany and Egypt
Ambassador Schulz emphasized the long-standing friendship and partnership between Germany and Egypt, describing the bilateral relationship as one built on trust and extensive cooperation. “Germany and Egypt have a remarkable partnership that spans multiple fields, including politics, economics, and education,” Schulz remarked. He noted that the relationship is particularly strong in cultural and educational exchange, with both nations working closely in areas like archaeology, research, and academic institutions.
One standout example of this cooperation, according to the ambassador, is the presence of two German universities in Egypt, which together enroll more than 17,000 students. Additionally, Schulz praised the “100 Egyptian-German Schools” initiative, a project launched earlier this year to further boost educational ties.
Growing Economic Ties: Germany as a Key Partner
Germany’s economic relationship with Egypt has also flourished in recent years. Ambassador Schulz pointed out that trade between the two countries has increased by 23% over the past year, reaching nearly 7 billion euros. “Germany is one of Egypt’s top five trading partners globally,” he said, underscoring the importance of their economic ties.
Schulz also highlighted Germany’s involvement in Egypt’s major infrastructure and energy projects, noting that German companies play a pivotal role in these sectors. He mentioned that Germany, both bilaterally and through the European Union, continues to support Egypt’s reform agenda aimed at improving the business climate for German investors. In a forward-looking statement, the ambassador revealed that Germany is set to begin importing hydrogen produced in Egypt as part of its efforts to decarbonize its industry.
Egypt: A Favorite Destination for German Tourists
Ambassador Schulz celebrated Egypt’s continued popularity among German tourists, revealing that 1.5 million Germans visited the country last year. He credited the robust tourism exchange to Egypt’s rich cultural heritage and its enduring appeal as a travel destination. “Egypt remains one of the most beloved destinations for German tourists,” Schulz said, expressing hope for continued growth in this sector. “We are proud of what we have achieved, but this also motivates us to work even harder to expand this cooperation.”
German Unity Day: A Symbol of Peaceful Reunification
The ambassador then shifted to the significance of German Unity Day, calling it a “national celebration” that commemorates the peaceful reunification of Germany 34 years ago. “In 1990, we hoped and dreamed of a better, more peaceful world,” Schulz reflected. While some of those hopes have been realized, others remain unfulfilled, he added.
Looking back at the fall of the Berlin Wall, Schulz recalled how many people believed that the German division would last for generations. “It seemed impossible to resolve the so-called ‘German Question,’ but things changed rapidly, and today, we live united in peace and freedom,” he said. Schulz expressed his hopes that the people of the Middle East, who face numerous challenges and hardships today, would also experience lasting peace. He stressed that the reunification of Germany serves as a reminder of the importance of diplomacy in securing peace and freedom globally.
A Thank You to Sponsors and Embassy Staff
As his speech drew to a close, Ambassador Schulz extended his gratitude to the evening’s sponsors, including BMW Egypt, Kayan Group, and Siemens, acknowledging their vital support in making the event possible. He also thanked the staff of the German Embassy in Cairo for their dedicated efforts in organizing the celebration.
German Unity Day celebration in Cairo was more than a commemoration of Germany’s reunification—it was a testament to the deep and growing ties between Germany and Egypt. With partnerships that span education, trade, tourism, and diplomacy, both nations are looking to an even stronger future built on mutual respect and shared goals.
