Dear Readers of the Newsletter of the German Consulate General Vancouver,

Another year is coming to an end, one in which we still find ourselves witnessing the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. It has been a year that foreshadows significant political changes in the United States. In Germany, the government coalition has broken apart, while Europe finds itself in a critical phase. Does this mean bleak prospects for 2025 and cause for concern? Not necessarily.

Despite all the bad news and unanswered questions, there are positive developments that we should not lose sight of. In Canada, the recent elections in three provinces have demonstrated the country's stability as a democracy with dependable institutions, where political shifts—such as the rightward trends currently observed in many countries—do not necessarily take hold.

Likewise, in Germany, there is a clear roadmap for the democratic election of a new Bundestag and the formation of a hopefully stable government. The relationship between Canada and Germany remains close, trusting, and dependable—a pillar of stability in turbulent times.

Next year, Canada will assume the presidency of the G7, the group of the seven leading Western industrial nations. Few countries are as well-positioned as Canada to demonstrate what international, peaceful cooperation can look like when shared values and fundamental beliefs guide the way. This is an important message, and Germany will fully support Canada in spreading it—for the benefit of our two nations and hopefully many others.

In the weeks ahead, however, we should take time to pause, reflect on what has been, and look ahead to what is to come. Let us focus on what truly matters: our families, loved ones, and friends, as well as the freedom to live in peace and security.

With this in mind, my team and I wish you a peaceful Advent season, a merry Christmas, and a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year.

Marc Eichhorn
Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany