The German Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Dietrich Beker, has reaffirmed his country's commitment to peace, respect for international law, and cooperation between nations. At a ceremony celebrating the 36th anniversary of German reunification, Beker highlighted the significance of this event in German history, which marked the country's reunification after over four decades of division. He noted that this reunification was made possible by a peaceful revolution and the courage of German citizens.
Beker also emphasized that Germany's experience teaches a fundamental lesson: that only peaceful coexistence between peoples and respect for international law can guarantee peace, progress, and freedom. He stressed the importance of respecting borders, their inviolability, and the principle of non-resort to war of aggression. According to him, cooperation and peaceful means must be the preferred ways to overcome differences between nations.
The ceremony also highlighted 65 years of cooperation between Germany and Burkina Faso, dating back to 1961. The current portfolio of this cooperation represents approximately 330 billion FCFA, or nearly 500 million euros. The interventions concern several regions of Burkina Faso and directly benefit hundreds of thousands of people. Beker also mentioned the continuity of political dialogue between the two countries, including recent exchanges between foreign ministers.
Germany intends to continue its accompaniment of Burkina Faso in its quest for sovereignty, peace, and prosperity, particularly within the framework of the RELANCE program. Areas of intervention include improving access to drinking water, establishing value chains for agricultural product processing, and developing sustainable industrialization. Cultural and scientific cooperation also constitute an important axis, with efforts to facilitate access for young Burkinabe to studies and technical training in Germany.
Beker also emphasized the importance of dialogue around historical memories, particularly Germany's colonial past. He reaffirmed his country's willingness to continue its reflection on this period, stressing that exchanges with Africans remain essential to this approach. He also addressed the security situation, recalling the inextricable link between peace, development, and respect for human rights.
The ceremony was attended by Minister Delegate for Regional Cooperation Bêbgnasgnan Stella Eldine Kabré, who praised the cooperation between the two countries and called for the strengthening of this partnership. Beker expressed his respect for the Burkinabe armed forces and young men and women engaged in protecting and developing their villages.
The German Ambassador concluded by saluting the efforts of the Burkinabe government and military command to prioritize the protection of civilians within the armed forces and Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP). The celebration highlighted the strong commitment of Germany to peace and development in Burkina Faso, and the two countries' willingness to continue and strengthen their cooperation.
Key points
- Germany reaffirms its commitment to peace and development in Burkina Faso, highlighting 65 years of cooperation and a portfolio of approximately 500 million euros.
