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Steffen Seibert was Angela Merkel's government spokesman for eleven years
Photo:
M. Popow/ imago images/Metodi Popow
Former government spokesman Steffen Seibert becomes the new German ambassador to Israel.
The longtime TV journalist has now confirmed this with a video message to the Israeli population.
The media reported about Seibert's new task months ago, but the 62-year-old never confirmed the nomination.
At the beginning of the statement, which he describes as an invitation to follow his work and that of the Israeli embassy, Seibert addresses the audience in Hebrew.
He continues in English and says that Germany and Israel have a relationship that cannot be compared to any other.
"Today we are partners and friends," says Seibert.
After the "inhumanity" and the "monstrous crimes" of the Shoah, this is something that Germans cannot take for granted.
One of the most important lessons from history is that Germany stands by the Israeli state and is committed to its security.
"I look forward to getting to know your country and your different perspectives and challenges better," says Seibert.
He would also be happy to answer any questions the Israelis had about Germany.
Seibert was government spokesman for the federal government from August 2010 to December 2021.
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