Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has congratulated King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on their Coronation. The Federal President writes:
On the occasion of your Coronation, permit me to offer you and the entire British people my warmest congratulations and those of my fellow Germans.
You are assuming great responsibility at a time of fundamental change and historic watersheds. Our countries are facing long-unknown threats to our livelihoods and our security. Supposed certainties, such as lasting peace in Europe, are being called into question, and our societies’ cohesion is being put to the test. As King, you represent the cohesion of the United Kingdom. I am confident that, with your experience, you will be able to provide orientation in times of uncertainty and transition. Allow me to wish you much strength and a sure hand for the great task that has now passed to you.
Our two countries share a close friendship based on strong common values. Your Majesties’ visit to Germany a few weeks ago was an expression of these close bonds. That you and the Queen Consort visited Germany even before your Coronation was a very special gesture, and one which we Germans profoundly appreciate.
Your successful visit opened up a new and important chapter in German-British relations. It also provided an opportunity to reflect on our shared history; in this context, it became particularly clear to me just how important our common endeavours to address even the dark moments of that history have been and continue to be in strengthening the ties between our countries. This reaffirms our resolve to continue to work together for the preservation of peace and freedom in Europe and the world. With this in mind, I look with confidence to the forthcoming challenges.
We are grateful for the friendship extended to us by your family and your country after the dark years of the Second World War. Nurturing this friendship and thereby honouring the memory of your mother, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, is a matter particularly close to my heart.
In sending my very best wishes for health and happiness to Your Majesty, to the Queen, to the entire Royal Family and to all British people in the United Kingdom, in Germany and worldwide.