Merz elected Chancellor of Germany makes first visit to Poland: remember historical responsibility, heal wounds and promote mutual trust

German new Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in a post today (May 8th): "The great responsibility arising from our sins still exists. We accept it. Germany will never forget the millions of victims during the occupation of Poland."

Comment: Merz was elected as the German Chancellor on May 6th and visited France and Poland the next day, which is May 7th. This diplomatic schedule highlights Germany's emphasis on its neighboring relations. France is its western neighbor, and the stability of German-French relations is crucial for the process of European integration; Poland is its eastern neighbor, and strengthening exchanges between Germany and Poland is significant for stabilizing the situation in Eastern Europe, coordinating positions on regional affairs, and relations with Russia.

Merz emphasized Germany's remembrance and sense of responsibility for the victims during Poland's occupation. This statement reflects Germany's respect for history, which helps heal historical wounds and enhance friendly trust with Poland. This reminds us of the gesture of then Federal German Chancellor Willy Brandt on December 7, 1970, when he knelt before the monument to the Jewish victims in Warsaw. Germany's positive reflection on history forms a sharp contrast with Japan's passive attitude.

Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1831502914587652/

Disclaimer: The article only represents the author's personal views.