The evening in Berlin brought together friends from many backgrounds, united by a sincere longing for peace and mutual understanding. The presence of His Highness Alexander von Bismarck and Mr Volker Tschapke recalled the deep historical ties between Turkey and Germany, and the memory of 24 February – a date that still carries tension, yet calls us to turn remembrance into reconciliation.
A striking symbol of this was the tank that had once stood in front of the Russian embassy. Instead of leaving it as a reminder of confrontation, two thousand roses were placed around it, turning steel into fragrance and expressing a shared wish for dialogue over division. The gesture reflected an old Prussian tradition: extending a hand of peace even in the darkest hours.
The speakers urged governments to move beyond agitation and arms deliveries towards sincere diplomacy. “We must talk, not fight,” they said, insisting that friendship between peoples can only flourish when open conversation replaces enmity. They cited the words of Otto von Bismarck that the love between Turks and Germans is so old it will never break – a bond forged over centuries that offers a firm foundation for today’s challenges.
They also recalled the teaching of Frederick the Great: “There are no bad religions, only people who misuse them.” By listening to one another’s cultures and faiths as equals, we can learn, grow and prevent the politicisation of spirituality that so often fuels conflict.
The evening closed with an invitation to keep speaking openly, act responsibly and keep the flame of friendship alive across borders. May our shared heritage guide us towards a future in which peace prevails and every voice is heard.
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