70 years of PH-German relations sees a new honeymoon phase, says top diplomat

By Veronica Uy

Ambassador Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke of Germany has declared a “new honeymoon” phase in the 70-year diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Germany.

“Recent months have seen a new honeymoon in our relations. And I hope you agree with me: What can be better than a new honeymoon for a mature couple of 70 years?” said the ambassador in his welcome remarks at the Raffles/Fairmont Hotel in Makati City at the celebration of Germany’s National Day last October 4.

Addressing Philippine government officials, diplomats, and guests from the business community. the ambassador highlighted the growing strength and depth of bilateral ties between the two countries, especially for 2024.

Ambassador Pfaffernoschke enumerated the following unprecedented high-level exchanges between the two nations: the visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Germany, accompanied by a large business delegation in March; and the first visit of a German Federal Foreign Minister to the Philippines in over a decade in January, followed by the first-ever visit of a German Federal Defense Minister in August; and the September port call of two German Navy ships in Manila, marking the first such visit in more than 20 years.

This last interaction, the ambassador pointed out, sent a strong message of support for international law, solidarity with the Philippines, and Germany’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in upholding the international rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea.

“Even if I risk to repeat myself, it cannot be said often and clearly enough: UNCLOS and the arbitral award of 2016 remain the pillars for lasting peace and stability in the South China Sea,” he said, referring to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Beyond defense and diplomacy, the ambassador underscored the robust economic relationship between the two nations. He said Germany remains the Philippines’ largest trade partner in the European Union, with German companies contributing significantly to job creation and economic development in the country.

Ambassador Pfaffernoschke also reiterated Germany’s support for the swift conclusion of a free trade agreement between the EU and the Philippines, with negotiations set to begin in Brussels this October.

Germany’s top diplomat in the country also took the opportunity to acknowledge the cooperation between the two nations in areas such as climate change, sustainable development, migration of skilled workers, and cultural exchange.

He announced that the Philippines will be the guest of honor at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair.

The celebration also featured the distribution of a special commemorative note honoring the 70th anniversary of Philippine-German diplomatic relations, which includes the image of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, who lived and studied in Germany, underscoring the shared history between the two nations.

“After more than one year in this wonderful country, I can wholeheartedly say, it is a real pleasure and honor to serve as Germany’s ambassador to the Philippines, this nation of legendary hospitality and friendliness,” he said.