The Foundation's values – dialogue, solidarity, Europe – these are not things that will defend themselves. They are something we must strive for every single day.
— Radosław Sikorski, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland
On March 30, we had the honor of welcoming distinguished guests. On the 35th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty on Good Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation, we hosted the foreign ministers of Poland and Germany — Deputy Prime Minister Radosław Sikorski and Minister Johann Wadephul.
For us, as hosts, this meeting was of special significance. Once again, Krzyżowa became a place where high-level politics meets the living idea of reconciliation.
The ministers recalled the foundations of our work - from the legacy of the Kreisau Circle, through the historic Mass of Reconciliation in 1989, to the present-day role of the Foundation.
“Support for institutions such as the Krzyżowa Foundation is the best investment in the future of our relations,” emphasized Minister Radosław Sikorski, declaring continued political support for our projects.
In the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine, the symbolism of Krzyżowa resonated particularly strongly. Minister Wadephul highlighted the importance of nurturing Polish-German reconciliation precisely at a time when it is being put to the test. A poignant moment came with the sound of air raid alerts on the ministers’ phones - a stark reminder that the peace we promote through education here cannot be taken for granted.
Our response to the devastations of the past is a commitment to a Europe united in peace and security. Our enduring responsibility as Germans is to never waver in this commitment and to always seek what unites us, despite everything that divides us.
Krzyżowa reminds us how vital personal civic engagement and the courageous decisions of individuals are in this pursuit, alongside the support provided by the state.
— Johann Wadephul, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany
What gave us the greatest satisfaction, however, was that the ministers took the time to meet with those for whom we exist - young people. The meeting was attended by students from Strzelin and from Frankenberg in Germany, as well as our volunteers from Ukraine, Germany, Turkey, and Georgia.
Krzyżowa is an institution that serves as a symbol of Polish-German relations. The meeting centre run here not only promotes knowledge but also builds lasting bonds. The projects implemented here develop more than just skills; they foster values such as tolerance and openness, which remain vital today. I had the opportunity to see this for myself while speaking with young people here today.
— Radosław Sikorski, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland
During the visit, the ministers also met with the Management Board and representatives of the Supervisory Board of our Foundation. The discussions addressed the role of European education and the importance of youth exchanges. We also presented a summary of our humanitarian efforts - since the outbreak of the war, Krzyżowa has provided a home for a total of 177 refugees from Ukraine. Together with our guests, we also visited the Church of Peace in Świdnica, continuing the dialogue in another symbolic place in our region.
We thank them for this visit and for every word of support. It is a strong impulse for us to continue our work of building bridges between nations. The future of Europe begins here - in dialogue, understanding, and joint action.
