German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier drew attention to his country's labor force needs. Speaking at an event in Berlin, Steinmeier said, "In this country, immigrants are needed for the system to function. Hospitals, nursing homes, and the private sector are sustained by them."

Amid discussions over the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's plans to deport immigrants, Steinmeier opposed 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 acquire 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.