During his remarks, Chancellor Merz welcomed Guterres to the Federal Chancellery and emphasized the high value Germany places on the United Nations. In a world marked by multiple crises, he affirmed that Germany will continue to be a reliable partner of the multilateral system.

The Chancellor gave particularly attention to the work of peacekeepers in regions such as Lebanon and South Sudan and expressed his appreciation for the military and civilian staff working under challenging conditions. He also reiterated that Germany will continue to support these missions with both personnel and financial resources.

Furthermore, Merz announced Germany’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2027–2028 term. This candidacy, he explained, reflects a strong commitment to a rules-based international order rather than one dictated by force.

The press conference also addressed other pressing international issues, including the urgent need for a ceasefire in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Additional topics included strengthening the UN’s presence in Bonn and advancing institutional reform within the organization. Guterres welcomed Germany’s continued engagement, stressing that “the world needs responsible actors who stand up for multilateralism in times of fragmentation.”

With this high-level visit and the hosting of the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial, Germany is solidifying its role as a key player in the multilateral system. In the year of the UN’s 80th anniversary, Berlin sends a clear message: it is ready to take on global responsibility, drive forward reform, and contribute actively to peace, sustainable development, and climate justice.

• https://www.bundeskanzler.de/bk-de/aktuelles/kanzler-un-generalsekretaer-2347604 https://www.bundeskanzler.de/bk-de/aktuelles/kanzler-un-generalsekretaer-2347604