” ‘United in diversity’ – this motto of the European Union is more important than ever. Not only for the European Union itself, but also in a global perspective. In this time of military conflicts and a global refugee crisis we need both: respect for the enriching diversity of cultures, ethnics and religions as well as a deeper understanding of international cooperation as an important determinant for peace and welfare all around the world. I strongly wish that the World Culture Festival will bring cultures, religions and nations together – for the benefit of the whole world.”
Mr. Armin Laschet is Deputy Chairman of the Christian Democratic Union of Germany (CDU) and Head, North Rhine-Westphalia. As a member of the Bundestag, he served on the Committee on Economic Cooperation and Development and the Committee on the Affairs of the European Union. As Member of the European Parliament, he was on the Committee on Budgets and the Committee on Foreign Affairs. He has held multiple ministerial portfolios including State Minister for Generations, Family, Women and Integration; State Minister for Federal Affairs, Europe and Media.