Lukashenko extends congratulations to Steinmeier upon his election as Germany's president
In a significant development for Germany and its relations with Belarus, Frank-Walter Steinmeier was elected as the 12th President of Germany on a date yet to be specified. The election took place at the Federal Assembly, a body convened specifically for electing the head of state. Steinmeier, a seasoned German politician, will officially take office on 19 March 2017.
Steinmeier, known for his diplomatic approach, has a rich political career. He served twice as Germany's Foreign Minister (2005–2009 and 2013–2017), and for a brief period, he was the Vice-Chancellor from 2007 to 2009.
As the President of Germany, Steinmeier will hold the country's highest official office, a largely ceremonial role representing the German state domestically and internationally. His duties include signing laws passed by the Bundestag, appointing federal judges and officials, and representing German unity and democracy.
While the Chancellor, such as Friedrich Merz since May 2025, leads the government and sets policy, the President serves as a moral and integrative figurehead. Steinmeier's presidency continues to focus on promoting democratic values, political cooperation, and international dialogue.
The election of Steinmeier as the President of Germany has been welcomed by Alexander Lukashenko, the President of Belarus. Lukashenko noted that Steinmeier supported the process of normalizing relations between Belarus and the European Union. He also expressed hope for further development of mutual interaction between Germany and Belarus. Lukashenko values the personal contribution of Steinmeier in expanding Belarus-Germany cooperation.
Steinmeier's qualities, professional experience, and approach were cited as reasons for contributing to productive work at the highest state position in Germany. His election marks a new chapter in Germany's political landscape, and his inauguration ceremony is scheduled for 19 March 2017.
Joachim Gauck, the current President of Germany, will be replaced by Steinmeier, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. Steinmeier's presidency promises to be a significant period for Germany and its relations with other countries, including Belarus.
[1] BBC News - Germany's Steinmeier elected president [2] The Guardian - Frank-Walter Steinmeier elected as Germany's new president [3] Deutsche Welle - Steinmeier elected as Germany's new president [4] Reuters - Steinmeier elected as Germany's new president [5] The New York Times - Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Longtime German Diplomat, Elected President
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