bahrainthismonth.com | OCTOBER 2025 INTERVIEW 23 This is important because Germany is an ageing society, and we are seeking skilled workers in healthcare, engineering and other sectors. Our new government has introduced a Blue Card system to attract qualified professionals, but language skills are essential. At the same time, many Bahraini students can also study in English in Germany, particularly in medicine, engineering and business. The German Academic Exchange Service provides scholarships to support them. How can Germany, as a leader in advanced technologies, contribute to Bahrain’s innovative fintech industry? Germany has strong experience in banking, insurance and reinsurance. Hannover Re, the third largest reinsurance company in the world, has a regional office here. We are ready to cooperate with Bahrain in areas such as fintech and especially cyber security, which is crucial for financial technology. This is an area where Germany can contribute expertise and collaborate with Bahrain’s ambitious plans. What aspects of German culture would you most like to share with the Bahraini public during your tenure? Of course we will bring classical German culture like Beethoven and Bach, but I also want to share contemporary culture, including young and innovative artists from Berlin and other regions. We will participate in local events such as the Spring Festival, Jazz Festival and Oktoberfest. Culture is about bringing people together, whether through serious art or lively festivals with music and social gatherings. We want Bahrainis to enjoy the full spectrum of German culture. How do you see the Germany community in Bahrain’s contribution to strengthening ties between our two countries? There are around 500 German citizens living in Bahrain, working in business, culture and other sectors. Many are married to Bahrainis, creating strong family links. Each of them is an ambassador in their own way. We are also promoting Germany as a tourist destination, with a roadshow in October to showcase Germany’s rich culture and landscapes. Germans here help to build a living bridge between the two countries. Germany and the EU place strong emphasis on dialogue and cooperation with the Gulf. How does Bahrain fit into Germany’s broader regional strategy? Bahrain is an anchor of stability in the region. Germany participates in EU missions to stabilise the Red Sea area and contributes to combined maritime forces headquartered here in Bahrain. German soldiers are part of these operations, protecting shipping routes which are vital for energy supplies to Europe. The German government considers Bahrain a strategic partner, and that is why we will continue to participate in the Manama Dialogue at the highest level. On a personal note, what excites you most about living in Bahrain, and what experiences are you looking forward to exploring during your posting here? What excites me most is Bahrain’s religious and ethnic diversity. People of different cultures and religions live together openly and equally, which is very inspiring. It shows real humanity, and Bahrainis live that authentically. I want to explore the country’s cultural heritage more deeply, including its museums and archaeological sites. I also look forward to sports – from Formula One to football and basketball. As a football fan, I would love to see a Bundesliga team play in Bahrain one day! Scan to watch
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==