Secretary-General’s Activities in Germany from 13 to 15 May

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in Berlin on May 13, 2025, to participate in the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting focused on the future of peacekeeping efforts. During the opening ceremony, he emphasized the critical role of UN peacekeepers in conflict zones, stating that their presence can be a matter of life and death. Guterres also highlighted the financial challenges facing peacekeeping operations and paid tribute to the 4,400 peacekeepers who have lost their lives in service.

Opening Ceremony and Tribute to Peacekeepers

At the opening ceremony of the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting, Secretary-General Guterres reaffirmed the importance of UN peacekeepers, often referred to as “blue helmets,” in maintaining global peace. He remarked that their work exemplifies the effectiveness of multilateral action in achieving and sustaining peace. Guterres addressed the financial constraints that threaten peacekeeping missions and stressed the need to enhance the capabilities of peacekeepers to respond to complex and borderless conflicts. In a poignant moment, he invited attendees to observe a moment of silence in honor of the fallen peacekeepers, acknowledging their sacrifices and the populations they protect.

Discussions on Enhancing Peacekeeping Operations

Following the opening ceremony, Guterres participated in a panel discussion aimed at exploring the political parameters necessary for improving UN peace operations. The discussion focused on making peacekeeping missions more effective, efficient, and responsive to the evolving needs on the ground. Guterres engaged with various officials, including Germany’s Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, and Federal Minister for Defence, Boris Pistorius. They discussed Germany’s significant role in peacekeeping efforts and the importance of international collaboration in addressing global security challenges.

Meetings with Global Leaders

Throughout his visit, Guterres held meetings with several international leaders, including Elina Valtonen, Finland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Guido Crosetto, Italy’s Minister for Defence. He also met with Byambatsogt Sandag, Mongolia’s Minister for Defence, and Feridun Sinirlioğlu, Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). A notable meeting took place with General Dong Jun, China’s Minister of National Defence. These discussions underscored the need for strategic consensus in peacekeeping and the importance of adapting missions to meet specific regional requirements.

Press Conference and Calls for Ceasefire

On May 14, Guterres held a joint press conference with German officials Wadephul and Pistorius, where he discussed ongoing UN operations in various regions, including Lebanon and South Sudan. He emphasized the UN’s commitment to adapting peacekeeping missions to the unique challenges of each context. Later, he met with Reem Alabali-Radovan, Germany’s Minister for Development and Economic Cooperation, and Chancellor Friedrich Merz. During these discussions, Guterres reiterated his urgent call for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and an unconditional release of hostages in Gaza, advocating for humanitarian access and a two-State solution. His visit concluded with a meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeir before departing for the League of Arab States Summit in Baghdad.

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