German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier highlighted his country's labor force needs. Speaking at an event in Berlin, Steinmeier said, "This country needs migrants for the system to work. Hospitals, nursing homes, and the private sector rely on them."

Amid discussions over the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's plans to repatriate migrants, Steinmeier spoke out against dividing citizens based on their origins. The President stated, "Our constitution is clear: There are no first or second-class citizens." He emphasized that those who acquire citizenship through naturalization have the same rights as those who gain citizenship by birth.

Steinmeier stated that German identity is not determined solely by origins or "blood flowing in the veins." He noted that a common language, the will to live together peacefully in freedom, and allegiance to the constitution form the foundation of German identity.