Thorsten Schäfer-Gümbel: ‘No global development issue can be resolved in isolation’

Listen, connect, transform – that is how GIZ works with partner organisations around the globe. GIZ’s annual reception in Berlin was the stage for a discussion between German Development Minister Svenja Schulze and Alamine Ousmane Mey, Cameroon’s Minister of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development. He summed up succinctly what he believes sets cooperation with Germany apart. ‘Germany is an important player in international cooperation. Together we identify our priorities. Our focus is on using natural resources and biodiversity sustainably as well as on protecting them. And on health, rural development and good governance. That is fully in line with our national development goals.’ Development Minister Svenja Schulze added that this also impacts Germany. ‘In Germany we earn one out of every two euros from exports, making international cooperation and partnerships worldwide vitally important.’  

Federal Minister for Development and Economic Cooperation Schulze, Alamine Ousmane Mey, Cameroonian Minister of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development, Randa Kourieh-Ranarivelo, Head of GIZ’s Berlin Representation

Thorsten Schäfer-Gümbel, Chair of the GIZ Management Board, stressed that no global development issue can be resolved in isolation. GIZ is doing its bit for peace, security and stability around the world. ‘That is very much in Europe’s and Germany’s own best interests. If we disengage, others will take advantage of the gap we leave.’ Efforts to protect global goods and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals also have a positive effect for Germany, he said. Cooperation with the private sector is another indispensable factor here.

Development Minister Svenja Schulze underscored the fact that the partnership with Cameroon is exemplary. ‘We can only achieve our goals by working together. Because the main goal is to create viable prospects for people in partner countries to address the challenges they face and drive development forward.’ And these efforts are bearing fruit, as Minister Ousmane Mey confirmed: ‘With GIZ we can develop effective programmes.’