German envoy: Peace is achieved step by step

Caution, modesty and cooperation, these are the key terms that have characterized Germany's foreign policy after the second world war, leading it to play an ever increasing role in international affairs.

German Ambassador to Israel Dr Harald Kindermann is a seasoned politician who took on the post in Israel soon upon concluding a term in the same position in Saudi Arabia.

In Riad he developed an intimate familiarity with Arab people and culture, as well as a certain degree of skepticism regarding the West's ability to effect drastic reforms in the Middle East.

Speaking to Ynet, Kindermann expressed doubts about the viability of grand schemes, such as President George W. Bush's plan to spread democracy across the Arab world. "Peace is achieved by small steps," he opines.

He adds that Germany is seeking to push for a full Israeli-Arab peace because the conflict "touches us (Germany) not only politically, but also emotionally and economically."

Asked about Germany's decision sent troops to the United Nations peacekeeping in southern Lebanon at the end of last summer's war between Israel and Hizbullah, Kindermann said: "Israel should fear Germany's foreign policy on the Middle East.

"There is an agreement between the two sides that we won't surprise one another … Germany is preoccupied with peace policy. However, we are aware that peace sometimes necessitates military protection – but that does not mean we will conduct a militaristic policy. I am confident that we will always find the sources to fund the special forces needed to preserve peace in the world."

Germany is gaining more and more self-confidence. Today it is one of the largest donors in the area, and is leading a military force off the Lebanese coast. Will Israel face more severe and open German criticism in light of these changes?

Our two countries have very special and close relations … Friends may disagree sometimes, but openly and candidly express our opinion behind closed doors.

Is there a danger that Germany's new self-image, which found its expression in a rediscovered patriotism during the Soccer World Cup, could revive Nazism?

Right-wing extremists are no patriots – they do not really love their country. I do not believe that there is a danger of a Nazi revival in Germany. We have a new form of patriotism, which some term constitutional patriotism, and I believe there is no link or slippery slope between positive patriotism and dangerous nationalism.

What are Germany's goals in the Middle East as the new EU president?

The keyword of our foreign policy is engagement. We are not looking to realize our own objectives or our world view, but we will try to understand the situation in the region and we will listen to the needs to those involved. We will not perform any miracles. Peace is build in small steps, it has to grow like a tender plant.

We will strive to create all the necessary preconditions for peace, in order to increase the chances that both parties will hold a constructive dialogue. We believe that the right framework for such a change is the international Quartet of peace brokers – UN, EU, US and Russia.