German Unity Day Supplement by MM

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

UNITY DAY SUPPLEMENT

‘Our commitment Saudi-German bilateral ties to Europe is firm’ set to scale new heights

HIS year, for the first time, I am addressing you on the occasion of the Day of German Unity in my function as Federal President. It is a day that reminds us Germans what happiness our recent history has brought. In 1989, the courageous population in the East cast off the chains of oppression and fought successfully for freedom, democracy, and, in the end, the reunification of our fatherland. Today, 22 years later, we are thankful that our country has come into its own, mindful of what has been accomplished over the past decades: The economic miracle in the West, the establishment of a stable democracy and civil society there after the havoc wrought by National Socialism and the World War, and finally the peaceful revolution that brought freedom to the Germans in the East and the reunification of our country. Germany is a free country where the rule of law prevails. It is a country both economically strong and at the same time concerned with the welfare of all members of society. We may rightly promote our social market economy as a model for the world. Today we can be proud of our country and the role it is playing in doing good in the world. Especially in these politically and economically challenging times, we, Germans, remain committed to Europe. Europe is the joint response of many different countries to the wars of the 20th century, but is also a cultural home to a great variety of people, a standout political project and a wonderful cosmopolitan conception of unity in diversity. We want to uphold Europe now and nurture its future progress, especially when, given the current crisis; some are

RIYADH: GHAZANFAR ALI KHAN arab news staff

tempted to pull back behind national borders. We want to make Europe a space where peace and freedom are at home. We are also aware that even as a large country within Europe we are too small to mount an adequate response to political upheavals and the rapid rise of new economies around the world. We Germans need Europe. We Germans want Europe. We want to live up to the role in Europe that our country has gradually acquired, partly on the basis of our economic strength, but above all on the basis of the reliability we have demonstrated over decades. We want to take on responsibility. This is expected of us and that it is expected of us is — in light of our past history — a great gift of trust. — Federal President Joachim Gauck

ERMAN Ambassador Dieter W. Haller said that German-Saudi relations, which had been always strong and cordial, would be further strengthened as the two countries have decided to push forward with their strategic partnership in different sectors including trade, politics and culture. Haller made these remarks, while unveiling a series of new plans and initiatives that will go a long way in further boosting the links between the two friendly nations in the context of bilateral, regional and international affairs. “On political front, Germany and Saudi Arabia have forged closer ties. Senior officials of the two countries will hold political consultations in Berlin on Oct. 9, while an eight-member German parliamentary delegation is currently visiting the Kingdom,” said Haller, while speaking on the occasion of the German National Day, here yesterday. He pointed out that Prince Abdulaziz bin Abdullah, deputy foreign minister, will visit Berlin on Oct. 9 and 10 to hold talks with senior German officials including German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle. In the interview with Arab News, the German envoy gave an overview of the progressively growing relations between Riyadh and Berlin with special reference to the new initiatives taken by the two sides to broaden cooperation in new areas. Ambassador Haller also announced plans to open a German Language Center in Riyadh with an aim to impart German language lessons to Saudis. He also expressed happiness

over the incessant growth in trade, business and tourism, while an upswing in investment by German companies has also been reported. Asked about German position on regional issues like Syria, the diplomat renewed his call for an urgent political solution to end the bloody violence in Syria, where the regime crackdown on dissents has killed thousands and injured a large number of women and children so far. “Our position is identical with Saudi position in Syria and we do consult our allies like the Kingdom on issues like Syria,” said Haller, adding that Germany aims for ending the bloodshed, delivering aid to the people, and a peaceful political transition in that country. He said that “It is inhumane to see what is going on and not support Syrians in defending themselves.” He said that Saudi Arabia is one of our most important partners in the Middle East. “Therefore, close coordination between our two countries is necessary,” he added. On the question of Iran, he said that a nuclear bomb in the hands of Iran would not only be a threat to the Middle East region, it would also destabilize the security architecture worldwide. “We have passed unprecedented EU sanctions in order to dry out the financial resources of Iran’s nuclear program,” said the German envoy, while urging its partners worldwide to do the same. “It would be a severe mistake if Iran insists on its own terms and conditions and continue to break international obligations instead of opting for cooperation”, he warned. Haller said that the EU countries are closely working with all stakeholders including Arab countries and the US as well as our close ally like Saudi Arabia to force Iran to roll back its nuclear program. Asked about the problems faced by the Middle East peace process, he said that the situation in the Middle East region is in a flux. The Palestinian-Israeli conflict persists with very adverse implications emerging from time to time. “The fundamental changes across the Arab world have made the need for progress on the Middle East peace process all the more urgent,” said the diplomat, adding that the goal of a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has still not been achieved. He said that Saudi Arabia is a very important partner for Germany. “Germany seeks to develop, strengthen and intensify relations with the Kingdom, which is a leading player in a key region,” said Haller, adding that the Kingdom is also a member of the G20, a driving force in the Arab League and a leading power in the region. He further pointed out that the relations between Germany and Saudi Arabia remained traditionally good all the time especially since 1954, when the diplomatic relation was established between the two nations. Asked about the details of commercial interaction between the two countries, he said that Saudi Arabia is one of Germany’s main economic partners in the Arab world. The two-way trade during the first six months of the current year has reported an increase of 45 percent, said Haller, adding that the total trade amounted to around $ 11.5 billion in 2011. “Despite the high level of relations especially in business already established, there is a great potential, which together we want to exploit”, he added. This was especially true in the fields of infrastructure, renewable energy and the medical and health care sector. He further said that Germany wants to back up this positive development with a simplified visa issue procedure, which is now in place in the Riyadh-based G e r m a n Embassy. To this end, he noted that the German mission issued

more than 23,000 visas to Saudi businessmen, tourists and students in 2011. “But, this record is being broken this year”, said the envoy, adding that the German embassy has issued about 36,000 visas during the first nine months of 2012. “Three more months are still to go in 2012,” said Haller, while referring to the simplified visa procedure that has led to a steep surge in the applications for German/Schengen visa. He further pointed out that the actual number of Saudi nationals visiting Germany in a year will possibly exceed 100,000 as many people hold multiple entry visas. Many of the Saudis enter Germany from a third country also, said Haller, adding that the new high-tech visa processing system has made trips to 26

Ambassador Haller also announced plans to open a German Language Center in Riyadh with an aim to impart German language lessons to Saudis. He also expressed happiness over the incessant growth in trade, business and tourism, while an upswing in investment by German companies has also been reported. European countries easier for frequent Saudi and expatriate travelers. The new computer network will facilitate the rapid examination and efficient processing of visa applications for all Schengen countries and a person holding a visa from German embassy will have the choice and option to travel across the EU in any Schengen member state. He pointed out that the new system represented “a major step forward to enhance mobility and increase security of Saudi citizens and residents when they travel to Germany or to EU.” The new system, he said, has led to the streamlining of visa applications and border control procedures, which will benefit travelers from Saudi Arabia. Asked about the details of the proposed language center to be opened in the Kingdom, he said that the plans to open the German language school had been finalized. “We are looking at the regulatory provisions of the host government at the moment to open the language learning center,” said the diplomat. Languages play an essential part in shaping relationship between different cultures in a globalized world, said the envoy, while referring to the need

to open such center in Saudi Arabia. He pointed out that German was the native language of over 120 million Europeans. In addition, some 17 million people worldwide are currently learning German as a foreign language. “So knowing German provides the opportunity to experience firsthand an exciting part of Europe's culture and other parts of the world,” said Haller. “Here you can find out more about why it pays to learn German and how you can do this in Saudi Arabia,” he added. This is in addition to an ongoing Youth Exchange Program between the two countries. He said that he was pleased that the youth exchange would continue further as desired by the two sides. Germany was the third country (after China and Brazil) with which Saudi Arabia organized a bilateral youth exchange forum. In November 2011, a delegation of 20 young people from Saudi Arabia visited Germany, said the ambassador, while referring to the growing cooperation in the field of culture. To this end, he also noted an ongoing cooperation in the field of archaeology and archaeological research. Together with the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, the German Archaeological Institute (DAI) has been conducting multidisciplinary field work in the ancient oasis of Tayma in the Province of Tabuk since 2004. Historically, the oasis of Tayma was an important trading post on the trade routes leading from Southern Arabia to Syro-Mesopotamia and the Levant. According to a report released by the German embassy, Tayma may have been occupied as early as the 4th millennium BC. The report said that a number of objects from Tayma were also among the archaeological treasures displayed in Berlin in the exhibition “Roads of Arabia”, which took place from Jan. 25 until April 9, 2012 in the Museum for Islamic Art at the Pergamon Museum under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah. More than 100,000 people including men and women visited that exhibition. “The exhibition also gave additional impetus to German Saudi archaeological cooperation, as three new project contracts were signed at the opening ceremony. As part of these contracts, the Free University of Berlin will study 5th millenium BC herdsmen cultures in Northern Saudi Arabia, the University of Marburg will explore marine archaeological sites in the Red Sea, and the Rock Art Research Center Frankfurt will examine rock paintings throughout the Kingdom. He pointed out that the German Archaeological Institute has also been organizing courses in archaeological conservation and museology in Riyadh in cooperation with the SCTA and King Saud University since 2009. The common aim of these activities is to train a young generation of female and male specialists for the growing number of archaeological museums, excavation and conservation projects in Saudi Arabia. Germany has a lot to offer in this field.

Dieter W. Haller, Germany’s ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

UNITY DAY SUPPLEMENT

Germany’s position on global map is firmly established

N Oct. 3, 1990, something that Germany had been hoping for became a reality: With national reunification complete, our country had the chance to start afresh. Today, post-reunification Germany’s place alongside its partners in Europe and around the world is firmly established. Thus, the Day of German Unity is always an occasion to look back in a spirit of thankfulness and joy on what has been achieved so far. However, Germany will not flourish in the long run if Europe experiences a prolonged

period of weakness. A return to nationalism, as well as growing fundamentalism, are dangerous reactions to our changing world. Today’s united Europe has both a common culture and a common future. Reunification has taught us that many things that seemed impossible at first, can indeed become reality; the years since then have shown us what we can accomplish together with our partners in Europe. We are working hard to overcome the current crisis and must not allow it to call European integration into question. Now is the time to push the develop-

ment of the European model forward. The crisis has taught us that “more Europe” is the logical conclusion, but we now need a “better Europe” with more highly developed institutions, more transparency and increased democratic legitimacy, as well. “More Europe” is neither an end in itself nor is it a self-serving proposition. Europe has a global responsibility. It remains a guarantor of peace, freedom and prosperity. Only by working together in global solidarity can we win the battle for freedom, rule of law, human rights and democracy and the long-term fight against

poverty and climate change. Only a united Europe can succeed in this endeavor. Europe stands for more than interest spreads and bailout funds. Europe does have its price. More importantly, though, it has its value. We, Germans, see the good things that have happened to us and the good things we have accomplished as an obligation to future generations. Because Germany can only have a bright future within this united Europe, we must continue the work of unification with great determination. — Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle

Ambassador: Fostering global peace a common objective

T is with great joy, a bit of pride and a lot of gratitude that we Germans today commemorate our 22nd Day of National Unity. On Oct. 3, 1990, after four and a half decades of separation, our nation achieved its reunification peacefully and in full accordance with our neighbors. This event ushered in a new era in Europe. With the fall of the Berlin Wall on that memorable Nov. 9, 1989 the division in Europe — a result of World War II — was overcome. We will never forget those friends and partners who supported us in difficult times on the stony path to National Unity — the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia being one of them. Shukran (thanks ) to the Kingdom once again! With vision, perseverance and much sacrifice we managed to bridge the social and economic gaps between the democratic and free market-oriented western part of our country and the communist-led and state-run economy of former East Germany. The European Union of 12 member states has since 1990 developed into a Union of now 27 members, 17 of which make up the euro zone. In spite of the current financial challenges facing the 17 European Union countries of the euro zone: Not only we Germans as a nation, but the whole of Europe has over the last 22 years made unprecedented progress in building an area of peace, stability and prosperity. Let us not forget: The integration of the Eastern European states in the community of free and democratic nations is one of the major achievements of European policy in the recent past. Our strength as a nation lies in the principle of “Unity in

Diversity,” which we live every day. Germany is culturally and demographically a country as diverse and rich in human resources as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Unfortunately, we are not as blessed as the Kingdom with natural resources. The united Germany has over the years transformed into a multicultural society, based on the concepts of universal Human Rights and the principles of European enlightenment. More than four million Muslims living in Germany form an integral part of our country. As a religious group encompassing many nationalities they enjoy equal rights like every other citizen. Since 2006 the German government has been conducting a structured dialogue with representatives of Muslim communities and associations in order to promote integration and multiculturalism. We do not follow those few who would like to make us believe that there is a divide between cultures and religions. We, irrespective of where we were born or live, are all bound and should be guided by the basic human values as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. This Oct. 3 once again encourages us to strengthen the forces of cultural respect and tolerance.

After having served a little more than one year in the Kingdom now, I am pleased to see our bilateral partnership grow continuously. This is not only reflected in the substantial deepening of our political interaction, both in Riyadh, Berlin or for instance in New York at the United Nations. It is also reflected in the increased presence of German companies operating in the Kingdom and our constantly growing bilateral trade. Particularly, I would like to highlight Siemens’ strategic decision to invest with its Saudi partners in a production plant for gas turbines in Dammam’s Industrial City No. 2. We also welcome Hochtief’s decision — another German flagship company — to come back to the Saudi market and participate in the construction of tens of thousands of new housing units. And Linde has recently signed a $ 350 million joint venture project with Sadara. This augurs well. In the German private sector I notice a growing awareness of the enormous potentials the booming Saudi economy has to offer. Let me thank all our Saudi friends,

from the government, from the Saudi Chambers of Commerce, especially of Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam, for their commitment and good advice in further cementing this mutually beneficial economic partnership. I am equally pleased to see so many Saudi citizens traveling to Germany in 2012. We, in the embassy, have streamlined our visa procedures, improved our services and have in 2012 so far issued almost 80 percent more visas than in 2011. We also noticed a growing number of participants in our German language courses. We want to facilitate more people-to-people contacts. We want to see more Saudis in Germany and more Germans coming to the Kingdom. The Saudi-German Youth Exchange — an initiative taken by Custodian of the two Holy Mosques and so ably implemented by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs — has opened up many new possibilities. Shaping our bilateral partnership in the service of fostering global peace and understanding — this will remain our joint objective in the future! The United Germany with its strong, innovative and knowledge based economy and its multiculturally diverse society stands ready to join hands with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to achieve these noble goals. Dieter W. Haller Ambassador

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

UNITY DAY SUPPLEMENT

Studying German — in KSA and Germany

INCE the last century, King Saud University (KSU) offers a bachelor’s degree in “German for translators” to young Saudis. Student numbers have been growing strongly. This year, over 40 young men signed up for German at KSU. For many years now, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has recognized the importance of the German department by providing grants to students and teachers — and by sending permanent long-stay lecturers from Germany, covering most of their costs. Since 2009, Mark Rode, an internationally experienced specialist for German as a foreign language, has been teaching German at KSU. As he explains, he never ceases to be “impressed by the students' enthusiasm and talent.” The Saudi Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) is also greatly contributing to the quality of the future translators by annually sending a group of the best students to Germany for one year of studies at a German university. This year, Saudi students are bound for the University of Freiburg in the South of Germany, one of Germany's most prestigious universities. German skills a key asset and an entry ticket for topgrade employment Ambitious Saudis with German skills do not have to worry about employment opportunities. Over 400 German companies active in Saudi Arabia are hoping to

find able cultural and linguistic translators to facilitate mutual understanding with their Saudi partners and clients. At Effat University in Jeddah, another DAAD lecturer is now helping to also establish German as a subject for interested Saudi female students. Dr. Susanne Karam enjoys her challenging work and is happy to see the growing role of the German language. Tapping into a rich scientific tradition Spoken by over a 100 million speakers in four countries in the heart of Europe, it is also a language featuring a rich scientific history

and tradition. More than one hundred worldclass universities in Germany welcome students from all over the world to study at unmatched low fees, so that the brightest minds from all levels of society can achieve their full intellectual potential. German scientists were awarded over 100 Nobel Prizes; Germany also offers a great variety of dedicated, top-of-the-class research centers. KSU is rightly proud to have forged a close collaboration with one of these, the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics. There, Nobel

Laureat Prof. Theodor Haensch works with Prof. Dr. Abdallah Azzeer on new laser-technologies. Many other active cooperations with German universities exist: From archaeology to tourism there is a lively exchange of students, professors, knowledge, and ideas. Start studying German today. Whether student, employee, or businessman, you can start studying German today. The German Embassy in Riyadh orga-

Saudi students of the “German for Translators” program at King Saud University.

nizes courses at all levels and welcomes everyone interested to find all further details on their website www.riad.diplo.de. Saudis studying in Germany About 1,000 Saudis are studying or learning German in Germany itself. With generous support granted by the King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP), Saudis study or prepare to study at German universities. Medicine, engineering, chemistry, and architecture are among the Saudi students' favorite subjects. The DAAD and the Saudi Embassy's cultural office in Berlin are providing them with constant assistance in finding their ways into the renowned universities of Germany. The Goethe Institute for the Gulf Region in Abu Dhabi offers a new series of testimonials of Saudis studying in Germany called “Hayati fi Almania.” In one video, Dr. Nabeel Farhan from Mekka, a Saudi neurosurgeon, speaks about his many positive experiences in Germany. Go to http:// www.goethe.de/ins/ae/abu/ lrn/mld/arindex.htm to find out more. For more information on universities and studying in Germany as well as the German language programs in the Kingdom, the DAAD lecturers in Jeddah and Riyadh are happy to get in touch with all interested Saudis.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

UNITY DAY SUPPLEMENT

Otto-von-Guericke University: A seat of excellence

tto-von-Guericke University of Magdeburg (OvGU) is widely regarded as a global university. It is located in Magdeburg, the capital city of the state Saxony-Anhalt, in the middle of Germany and thus acknowledged by the Ministry of Culture of Saxony-Anhalt. It has a very good reputation in Germany and abroad. All 78 study programs offered at the university are sanctioned by national accrediting agencies and acknowledged by the ministry. The national rankings of the university in all majors (CHE-Trendence) for the engineering faculties are very high (among the 10 best German universities). The programs, which are based on vocational education, are developed and built in most cases in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry partners, and are therefore acknowledged domestically and abroad. We are not aware of government agencies or countries, which do not accept our degrees. All courses offered are acknowledged, national- and internationally. The university has full graduation privileges in bachelor’s, master’s, Ph. D. programs. In winter semester 2011/12 the total number of students is 13,891 (5,707 of these are women and 1,485 from abroad). The university has 221 professors and 1,540 scientific staff, which is involved in arranging and doing exercises and seminars. The curriculum at the bachelor’s degree programs will be fulfilled 100 percent by doctorate holders. All non-doctoral scientific staff are working toward a doctorate. Members of the university were appointed to national and international universities and research institutions. The OvGU has Intensive cooperation with research facilities in Magdeburg and Germany like Max-Planck-Institute and Fraunhofer. Quantitatively, there are currently approximately 105,000 square meters of internal area available at the university premises in total. University investment came approximately to a total of 46.2 million euros from 2005 to 2011 for new and

renovated buildings, including extension of premises. The Library as an example: • Total volumes: 1.220.366 • Item no. Journal titles (print) 1,312 • Item no. Journal titles (electronic) 20,506 • Lend 2011: 900,000 • Expenses in 2011: 3.5 million euros Mission Statement: • The OvGU sees itself in the tradition of the former technical colleges as a “modern university with a technical focus.” It aims at the combination of technical and nontechnical knowledge. Analogical coin next to the engineering sciences, natural sciences and medicine, as well as economic, social, human sciences and computer science. • The history of the Otto-von-Guericke University dates back to the year 1953. It is closely connected with the history of engineering in Magdeburg. Shortly after the end of the World War II, the rebuilding of the heavily destroyed city of Magdeburg began, and with it the development of mechanical engineering. • The first step was the establishment of the university for heavy mechanical engineering. • In 1961, in addition to the status of the Technical University Magdeburg, the name of the famous German physicist and politician Otto von Guericke was awarded. • In 1993 followed the merger of all higher education institutions into today’s Otto von Guericke University. • In 78 courses of studies, approx. 14,000 students are present at the Magdeburg University. • Optimal care conditions, solid technical training at a high level, as well as practical features distinguish the OvGU. General information for foreign students: For being admitted to study in a German

university, foreign students are expected to prove the command of the German language and the passing of the German language proficiency examination (“Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang” = DSH). Furthermore, the German federal ministries of education have developed an official evaluation system for universities. This system defines which educational qualifications are equivalent to the “German Abitur” for each country and, hence, are eligible for the entrance to a German university (“Hochschulzugangsberechtigung” = HZB). In addition to the secondary school graduation, interested parties (Students from Saudi Arabia must successfully have completed, additionally to secondary degree, a university entrance examination) need to have passed the university entrance exam (“Feststellungsprüfung”), successfully completed a certain time of study or achieved a degree in order to study in Germany. Applicants who have to take the university entrance exam will be offered attending a preparatory college to gear up for the studies in Germany. On the one hand, the task of the preparatory college is to teach

the applicants the required language skills. On the other hand, the college will adjust the applicants’ knowledge as well as their familiarity of scientific methods, based on the respective area of studies, to freshmen with German university entrance qualifications. The preparation at the college is arranged for two semesters. To attend a preparatory college in Germany, a certain level of German language proficiency is already expected from the coming student at the beginning. It can provide with a certificate, which states that a A1/A2-level examination (after 400 – 600 teaching hours) according to the Common European Framework of References for Languages have been passed. Some preparatory colleges require the successful completion of level B1 (starting from 600 teaching hours). About the Company MDWI AG Magdeburger Wirtschaftsinformatik AG (MDWI AG) is a spin-off, which grew out of Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg. In cooperation with the rector, several professors and employees of the university, we founded the MDWI AG with the particular

A delegation of OTTOvonGuericke University of Magdeburg meets with Higher Education Minister Khaled Al-Anqari. aim of building a bridge across continents which links students and, thus, people with each other, so that a joint future can be created. The intention and goal of the company is the development of sustainable transfer of Know-How. Objectives of the established corporation are the marketing of expertise of the various areas and faculties. With official notification by the Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs of SaxonyAnhalt dated Feb. 18, 2010, according to article 28, section 4, Law on Universities of the State of Saxony-Anhalt, MDWI AG is state-approved as private Preparatory College.

What we can offer: • Care Package: This package include: Support in home country • Assistance in application for studies and university (Acceptance) • Help with visa issuing by the German embassy Support in Germany • Pick-up service from airport • Help with organizing an accommodation • Assistance in enrolment, bank account (blocked account), health insurance, Aliens Registration

Office (residence permit) • Fully care service in the first three months • Intensive Preparatory College (Studienkolleg) Due to the close cooperation with OvGU, we are able to offer an intensive Preparatory College. This enables to complete the language training and the special study preparation within one year (usual time frame in Germany — two years). Therefore, the students save time of a full year and, thus, about € 8,000 cost of living. This curse include more than 1000 study ours in mathematics, Physics, Informatics and “introduction to Engineering” and an intensive German language curs. COSTS: the intensive Preparatory College including the care package and all public transportation in the city of Magdeburg 8.900,00 euros. These costs are only for the first year (preparation College). There are no fees for the study later (just 69 euros a semester for matriculation and enrollment). For any further year an extra service package could be offered like: 1. The MDWI AG shall organize an annual review of the scholarship status of the scholarship students and report the results to The Ministry by the end of each year. Those who pass the annual review shall be entitled to continue their studies for the next academic year. For those who fail, the MDWI AG and The Ministry will deal with the cases through mutual consultation. 2. During their study period in Magdeburg the scholarship students will have a contact person in the MDWI AG, who will help them if problems occur. This person will also establish needed contacts to the responsible people at the OvGU, which provides academic counseling to the scholarship students. 3. The MDWI AG shall assist the Ministry in the requirements of the scholarship students to fulfill their obligations of returning home on time and shall provide The Ministry with the relevant information.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

UNITY DAY SUPPLEMENT

Driving through Germany gives a rare treat

AVE you ever driven from Makkah to Riyadh? If so, you will remember it was mostly a desert ride. Hours of passing by rocks and sand, the occasional shrub and camel, and not many people. In Germany, the same distance will take you through the whole length of the country. From the northernmost point on the border to Denmark to the southern most regions where Austria is near. You can make the journey within nine hours, but why rush? There is a lot to see! Starting at the Northern Sea, the journey will take you through the grassland plains in the North and wood-covered hills in the middle. You will see small mountains in the South and eventually meet the majestic mountain range of the Alps, forming most of the southern border. You'll pass by pastures with cattle and sheep and drive through a variety of woods. You will find big cities and picturesque little towns and villages, hosting interesting architecture as well as historic buildings like castles and other remnants of ancient culture. You will even find pyramids. Pyramids? True! Albeit small ones, and perhaps a bit younger than the Egyptian originals. And while most of them are half buried in soil and covered by wood, at least one of them is placed in the center of a town. For everyone to see, up to this date, and in honor of the town's founder. It is easy to get around. Germans are famous for -and fond of- their cars. After all, Germany is the birthplace of the modern automobile. No wonder, then, that we find

three German brands amongst the top 10 car manufacturers of the world. And no wonder we find good roads. Some of which are quite famous, like the "Autobahn.” You will like them. With the oldest one dating back to 1921, there are now almost 13,000 km of it around. They have set international standards for many years, and are worldwide renowned (if not awed, and sometimes feared) for the absence of speed limits. Which, however, is only partly true: more often than not, you actually do find those red-rimmed road signs with a black number on white background. It is wise to heed them. Speeding tickets can damage your holiday budget. You might find comfort, though, in

knowing that such money goes into charity. But unless stated otherwise, you can indeed go as fast as you like as long as it is safe. Which puts a lot of responsibility into your hands. Not everyone can handle it. There are many little roadside memorials to remind the passing traffic of those who couldn't. And have the wisdom that you find in using the accelerator with care. Best practice — as everywhere you go — is to drive like the locals do. At least like those who are still alive. You may even try and do like the women, for these drive far more safely than men: only a third of all accidents with injuries are caused by women. Men, in contrast, are said to be better at

While driving through the country, one gets to see small pyramids. While most of them are half buried in soil and covered by wood, at least one of them is placed in the center of a town. squeezing their cars into even the smallest parking space. Which can be a useful skill, especially downtown bigger cities. You may wish to combine the skills, then. To get the best of your visit, come in the summer months. The sun is up for up to 16 hours a day, nature shows herself in all her beautiful colors, and the weather is pleasant: German summer is like Saudi spring. On average, summer temperatures peak around 25C in the North, and 30C in the South. The all-time temperature record is 40C. In any case, German summer weather will make you feel almost at home. So why not come and drive through Germany? You'll never be the same again.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

UNITY DAY SUPPLEMENT

AHK Saudi Arabia plays a key role in strengthening bilateral trade ties RIYADH: GHAZANFAR ALI KHAN arab news staff

he German Saudi Arabian Liaison Office for Economic Affairs (AHK Saudi Arabia) has set out a broad vision of commercial relations between Riyadh and Berlin with several programs lined up by this premier German agency for 2013. More than 50 events and business delegations were organized by AHK Saudi Arabia this year alone with a mission to strengthen German-Saudi business relations, which have been traditionally very strong. “AHK Saudi Arabia, which is the official representation of the German Industry and Commerce in the Kingdom, is exerting untiring efforts to boost commercial links further between the two nations, which have also been close allies in the domain of politics and international affairs as well,” said Andreas Hergenrother, delegate of the German Industry and Commerce, in Riyadh yesterday. Hergenrother, while speaking on the occasion of the German National Day, said that German global players like Siemens or Mercedes have been active in the Kingdom for more than 75 years. “Today, more than 700 German companies have their own entities or representatives based in the Kingdom,” he added. He pointed out that the office of the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce for Saudi Arabia and Yemen was founded in 1978 under the name of German-Saudi Arabian Liaison Office for Economic Affairs (GESALO). AHK Saudi Arabia has been established as a bridge between Germany and Saudi Arabia as part of the German foreign trade policy. It is officially supported by the German Federal Ministry of

Andreas Hergenrother

Economics and Technology and the Federation of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry. “AHK Saudi Arabia is also part of the German Chamber Network with 120 offices all around the world,” said Hergenrother, adding that the members of the German Chamber Network (AHKs) offer their expertise and services to German and foreign companies. AHKs are located in all countries of the world, especially in those countries where German companies have substantial presence. With a staff of 20 permanent employees, AHK Saudi Arabia supports Saudi and German companies with a range of services. Referring to the services rendered by AHKs, he said that the AHKs are closely connected to the Chambers of Industry

and Commerce in Germany. “Together, they support German companies to build up business relations with business entities in foreign countries, representing in total 3.6 million companies in Germany,” he noted. Hergenrother, who is the delegate of German Industry and Commerce in Riyadh since October 2010, said that the commercial relations between the Kingdom and Germany had been progressively growing. “In December 2010, the first Saudi Arabia Desk was established in Germany at the Bielefeld Chamber of Industry and Commerce,” said the German official. It functions as an information platform about Saudi Arabia for all German companies, he added. A plan is in the pipeline to open an office in Jeddah also, said Hergenrother, adding that AHK Saudi Arabia will extend all support to any businessman who is interested in doing business in Saudi Arabia or in Germany. He said that AHK Saudi Arabia had been serving the interests of Saudi and German companies by inviting and coordinating with them to feature their products and services in trade fairs. “We also go for searching the perfect business partner for businesses looking for such a match,” said the German official. He pointed out that the AHK Saudi Arabia services include providing logistics support for market entry, individual market advice, business partner search, business research, direct mailing services, business trips, catalogue show and exhibition, market information, quick market check, market survey, trade fair services for exhibitors and visitors. He said that our office can provide legal information, visa and translation services also besides a number of other services required by businessmen from time to time.

Kids learn one of the martial art forms in Germany in this file photo.

For Brackmann, judo and charity go hand in hand

ERMANY'S Thomas Brackmann (35), a black belt in judo and orange belt in sambo, is working in Riyadh for the past two years. Brackmann organizes martial arts charity events during his spare time. Adults and kids demonstrate their skills in front a huge gathering comprising of martial arts fans, friends and families of the participants. The money made from these events in the form of donations is given to a British organization fighting cancer. One of the highlights of each event is a judo tournament for kids,

with Thomas as instructor. The children compete in front of their parents, friends and interested expats cheering and encouraging them. “I use these tournaments as an element of the later judo belt graduation for kids. Only when they are able to show in a fair competition they can proceed and succeed in formalized belt exams,” says Thomas. The competition is only part of the all-day charity events: “Shogun — The Martial Arts show”. It includes not only the kids competition as a part of the belt exam, but also judo matches and demonstrations by adults.

Thomas demonstrates advanced Judo moves of his black belt skills that he got in Saudi Arabia. In addition, there is a sambo show exhibition. “Sambo is a close combat method of the Russian Special Forces comprising a variety of dynamic self defense techniques.” Usually the martial arts show lasts several hours, followed by a gathering of family and friends in Riyadh. “By holding such events and conducting training classes I want to show people the beauty of martial arts, entertaining them and trying to create an atmosphere apart from the working life in Riyadh,” explains Thomas.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

UNITY DAY SUPPLEMENT

Saudi Arabia is central to SAP’s future plans

IETER W. Haller, German ambassador to Saudi Arabia, met with Ahmed Al-Faifi, managing director, SAP Saudi Arabia, to discuss the rapidly evolving technology landscape in the Kingdom, including its potential to empower youth and create jobs. Saudi Arabia is central to SAP’s future and will feature heavily in the continued rollout of a four-year additional investment plan to up-skill local talent and drive sustainable innovation and growth across the Middle East and North Africa region. The plan includes recruiting more than 500 additional employees, opening several new offices and expanding the company’s partner ecosystem and the SAP® University Alliances program. Additionally, significant increases will be made in the availability of comprehensive, innovative and localized service offerings. SAP MENA has also established a dedicated Training and Development Institute that aims to certify 2,000 new

consultants in the market within the next four years. Based in the UAE and specifically designed to benefit the entire MENA region, the venture will triple the company’s existing consulting capabilities in the region and further support the localization of SAP® solu-

German Ambassador to the Kingdom Dieter W. Haller and SAP official discuss KSA’s technology future.

Talks center on potential of ICT for job creation. tions to meet fast-growing regional industry needs. Looking ahead, SAP is in discussion with partners and customers to expand the initiative and create additional training institutes across the region, notably in Saudi Arabia. As a part of SAP’s commitment to the Saudi job market, the company recently welcomed a group talented students and young professionals to its ambitious MENA Field Services-Young Professionals Program (YPP). The talented recruits began the two-year program at SAP’s offices in Riyadh following an intensive selection process that entailed seeing off stiff competition from over 300 applications nominated by Saudi Arabia’s top universities and employers. Ambassador Haller commended SAP’s effort in training young Saudis and in creating additional jobs. “SAP is a German-based success story. It is one of our top blue chip companies. Its activities in the Kingdom are an important and welcome investment in further cementing the Saudi-German partnership,” Haller stated.