In his tribute, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier praised Horst Köhler as a highly esteemed and extremely popular figure, stating: "Horst Köhler firmly believed that ethical maxims and practical politics belong together and are compatible. When he said “I love our country", this underscored his commitment to a patriotism that was as passionate as it was enlightened."

Many citizens took the opportunity to sign the books of condolence that were laid out at the Federal President’s official residences in Berlin and Bonn. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and former Federal President Joachim Gauck also left messages of condolence.

Federal President Steinmeier scheduled an official ceremony in memory of Horst Köhler to take place on 18 February. As part of the ceremony, a memorial service will be held at the Berliner Dom.

Horst Köhler, who served in office from July 2004 to May 2010, was the ninth President of the Federal Republic of Germany. In his inaugural speech, he campaigned for Germany to be perceived as a "land of ideas" with the confidence and unity required to shape its own future and acting as a force for good in the world. One of his key domestic policy concerns was how to create and secure jobs in Germany that would be fit for the future. In foreign policy, Horst Köhler championed a fair form of globalisation that took the well-being of all people into account, and he warned against a financial capitalism unbound by any rules. He tirelessly highlighted the significance and potential of the African continent for global development.

Former Federal President Horst Köhler passed away on 1 February in Berlin at the age of 81 following a short but serious illness, surrounded by his family.