Welcome
Berlin calling: The heads of Germany’s missions abroad gather in the capital
The heads of Germany’s missions gather at the annually conference in the Federal Foreign Office in Berlin, © Photothek Media Lab
Foreign policy is teamwork. This year’s Conference of the Heads of German Missions is being held at the Federal Foreign Office from 9 to 12 September 2024. Its focus is on improving Europe’s capabilities and security, and expanding our partnerships around the globe.
Berlin calling! Each year, as summer draws to an end, the heads of the more than 220 German missions abroad gather at the Federal Foreign Office in Berlin for a four-day conference to debate the priorities of German foreign and security policy and discuss Germany’s role in a changing world. This year’s Conference is all about making Europe fit for the challenges of the future, and begins on Monday morning with a speech by Foreign Minister Baerbock. A special highlight this year is the presence of Indian Foreign Minister Dr Jaishankar, the guest of honour at the Business Forum on Tuesday.
Embassies as key actors for German foreign policy
The gathering, previously known as the “Ambassadors Conference”, is a set fixture in the German diplomatic calendar. Our missions abroad – which include not only the embassies but also consulates, consulates general, and permanent missions to international organisations – play a crucial role in representing Germany’s interests around the world and garnering support for German and European positions. They are our eyes and ears all over the world. Our colleagues at the German missions abroad work in their host countries to promote dialogue and exchange with businesses and civil society, foster close cooperation in education and culture, and support numerous projects on issues such as climate change and the empowerment of women and girls. The Conference in Berlin is an opportunity for our ambassadors to talk in person not only to the Foreign Minister and Federal Foreign Office colleagues, but also to the various guests from the fields of business, culture and civil society.
Key themes in a changing world
The Conference’s workshops, panel discussions and talks will address many pressing foreign policy issues. Attention will be focused on Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East, as well as on climate action and strengthening European competitiveness.
The Indian Foreign Minister is our guest at the Business Forum on 10 September
The programme on 10 September is dedicated to foreign trade and investment and, in this connection, covers various issues from artificial intelligence to recruiting skilled workers and implementing national climate targets. A particular focus this year is on the competitive advantages associated with transformation – an area in which the German missions are also vital bridge-builders when it comes to supporting both German investments abroad and foreign companies in Germany.