## German President Steinmeier Highlights Strong Academic Ties During Oxford Visit
German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier concluded a three-day state visit to the United Kingdom with a visit to the University of Oxford on December 5th, accompanied by First Lady Elke Büdenbender. Hosted by Their Majesties The King and Queen, the visit underscored the long-standing and robust academic partnerships between Oxford and Germany.
The President’s Oxford itinerary included meetings with the University’s Vice-Chancellor and Chancellor, and an academic showcase in the historic Divinity School. The showcase highlighted collaborative research initiatives, particularly those with important impact on the German economy and within the framework of the expansive Oxford-Berlin Partnership – the largest interdisciplinary collaboration of its kind between the UK and Germany.This partnership has fostered connections for over 1300 researchers and generated over £17 million in funding since 2017.
President Steinmeier also engaged with researchers working on cutting-edge projects in Quantum and Battery Technology, as well as those at Oxford’s Centre for Democratic Resilience and the Oxford Internet Institute (OII). These centres focus on critical areas like democratic stability in the face of political challenges and the societal implications of the internet and artificial intelligence.
During a ceremony in Convocation House, the president was awarded an Honorary degree, accompanied by a performance from The Queen’s College choir.
The visit to oxford followed engagements in London and Coventry,including meetings with the Royal Family,prime Minister,and Parliament members,as well as visits to cultural and industrial partners.
Oxford’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Irene Tracey, emphasized the importance of the relationship: “President Steinmeier’s visit is a powerful reminder of the depth of the ties between Oxford and Germany. Our collaborations…are strengthened by long-standing partnerships…It was an honor to welcome the President and First Lady to showcase the research and innovation…These relationships enrich our work and help us address shared global challenges.”
President Steinmeier himself remarked on the vital role of universities, stating, “Preserving one’s independence is one of academia’s noblest tasks…the collaboration between the University of Oxford and the Berlin universities…is a prime example of the european tradition of joint research and the free exchange of knowledge beyond national borders.” He expressed his honour at receiving the honorary doctorate and pledged to continue supporting academia and research.
