Inside Track

German Ambassador Dr. Gordon Kricke and Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Ma. Amelita Aquino lead the toast during the celebration of 28 Years of German Unity at the New World Hotel Makati last Oct. 3.

Last Oct. 3, distinguished guests from politics, business, culture and the diplomatic and consular corps were received by Ambassador of Federal Republic of Germany ambassador Dr. Gordon Kricke and his wife Anke at the New World Hotel Makati to celebrate 28 years of German unity.

In his address, Kricke highlighted the shared experience of Germany and the Philippines with peaceful revolutions and hailed the courage of their peoples to overcome political and social divisions and to fight for human rights, democracy and the rule of law.

The ambassador also emphasized the role of European integration in the road to German reunification. “The foreign policy of Germany is committed to the promotion of democracy, the rule of law and human rights, free trade and the defense of a rules based international order.”

He said Germany will continue to be a reliable partner on global issues and, importantly, a dependable partner of the Philippines in bilateral relations, including trade, development cooperation and people-to-people exchange, among other things.

With a banquet of culinary treats, guests were also treated to authentic Oktoberfest brew as well as a variety of excellent wines from vineyards all over Germany.

Guests also enjoyed musical highlights led by the Bavarian Sound Express followed by pop and jazz singer Vanessa Monot, the acoustic duo Leanne and Naara and finally, Nicole and Paolo on saxophone and jazz guitar, respectively.