Prominent figures participated in the discussion, including Mr. Manuel Saratsin, the special envoy of the federal government for the Western Balkans, Mr. Peter Bayer, a member of the Bundestag and the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Dr. Enver Hoxhaj, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Kosovo and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dr. Meglena Plugchieva, former ambassador of Bulgaria in Germany.

The panel focused on the implications of the changed geopolitical situation following the Russian attack on Ukraine. Discussions centered on the continuity, fault lines, and necessary changes in German and European policy towards Southeast Europe over the past twenty years. Additionally, the prospects for EU enlargement with the countries of the Western Balkans were thoroughly explored.

The event was attended by numerous members of the Bundestag, ambassadors, foreign diplomats, and many guests of the South East Europe Society.

During their speeches, the panelists highlighted various aspects of Dr. Gernot Erler's long and distinguished career, particularly his contributions to shaping Germany's foreign policy towards Russia, China, and the countries of Southeast Europe. Dr. Erler, one of the founders of the German-Bulgarian Forum, has played a significant role in drawing attention to Bulgaria and fostering the development of bilateral relations between Germany and Bulgaria.

The discussion served as a testament to Dr. Erler's enduring influence on German foreign policy and underscored the importance of addressing the complex geopolitical challenges facing Southeast Europe in the current global context.

• - https://www.mfa.bg/embassies/germany/news/41652