German President Honors Solidarity Five Years After Devastating Ahrtal Flood

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier honored the solidarity and cohesion displayed in the wake of the devastating flood that struck the Ahrtal region five years ago. Speaking at the opening of a photo exhibition titled "We Ahr Strong. Five Years, a New Look" in Altenahr, Steinmeier acknowledged the enduring pain of the disaster.

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Such an anniversary is not an easy day. One wants to look forward, but at the same time, one still feels the pain.

"Such an anniversary is not an easy day. One wants to look forward, but at the same time, one still feels the pain," Steinmeier said. He laid a wreath at the cemetery chapel in Ahrweiler, commemorating the victims. The exhibition features portraits of local residents, sharing their stories of what helped them through the difficult times, what they are proud of, and their visions for the future.

This was Steinmeier's fifth visit to the Ahrtal valley. "Five years later, the pain and suffering are not forgotten. But when we are here, we are not only remembering the site of a catastrophe, but also a place that has experienced an impressive level of solidarity," he stated. He added that the region now stands for solidarity, dignity, and even pride.

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Five years later, the pain and suffering are not forgotten. But when we are here, we are not only remembering the site of a catastrophe, but also a place that has experienced an impressive level of solidarity.

Regional leaders also spoke at the event. State Governor Gordon Schnieder (CDU) emphasized that each victim represents a personal tragedy for a family. District Administrator Cornelia Weigand, who experienced the flood firsthand, noted that the consequences are still visible in the landscape and towns, and the experience has changed the people. "Some losses are irreplaceable," she admitted, while also highlighting the willingness of people to help each other in times of need.

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The experience has changed us people.

Weigand also issued a plea for federal support, requesting the opening of reconstruction aid funds for flood retention basins. She warned that even with protective measures, the region remains vulnerable to future hundred-year floods, underscoring the need for ongoing investment and efforts to safeguard the area.

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Some losses are irreplaceable.