H.E. Igor Cesar, Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to Germany and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, joined H.E. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Germany on the annual information and exchange visit to the Saarland on 3 June 2026.

Since 1996, this initiative has provided members of the Diplomatic Corps with an opportunity to discover the diversity of Germany's federal states and gain deeper insights into their history, culture, economy, and innovation ecosystems.

The 2026 visit showcased Saarland's remarkable transformation from a region historically known for coal mining and steel production into a center for innovation, research, advanced manufacturing, and cross-border European cooperation. The delegation visited the family-owned electrical engineering company Hager in Blieskastel, research institutions at Saarland University in Saarbrücken, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Völklinger Hütte, and the renowned ceramics manufacturer Villeroy & Boch in Mettlach.

Speaking on behalf of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador Cesar expressed gratitude to President Steinmeier for his invitation and for his longstanding commitment to international dialogue, openness, and cooperation throughout his tenure. He highlighted the President’s role in strengthening relations between Germany and the international community and praised his genuine interest in fostering mutual understanding among nations. 

Ambassador Cesar also commended Saarland as an example of successful economic transformation, noting its ability to combine industrial heritage with innovation, digitalization, research excellence, and a strong European outlook. He emphasized that the region embodies the values of openness, resilience, and cross-border cooperation that are increasingly important in today’s interconnected world.

The visit concluded with an exchange between members of the Diplomatic Corps, federal and state representatives, and local stakeholders, further strengthening the spirit of dialogue and international friendship that underpins Germany’s engagement with the diplomatic community.

As Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador Cesar reaffirmed the importance of such initiatives in promoting mutual understanding, cooperation, and lasting partnerships between Germany and the international community.