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Mayor Hanno Benz commemorates the former president of the German-Polish Institute
Mayor Hanno Benz to the achievements of the former president of the German-Polish Institute , Prof. Dr. Rita Süssmuth . The former Federal Minister and President of the German Bundestag passed away on Sunday (1st) at the age of 88. Süssmuth served as president of the German-Polish Institute, based in Darmstadt, from January 2006 to December 2023 and maintained close ties to the city of Darmstadt, known for its scientific institutions.
“ For almost two decades, Rita Süssmuth has made an outstanding contribution to mediation and understanding between Germany and Poland, and has made a significant contribution to good cooperation within the framework of German-Polish relations ,” Mayor Benz declared in his tribute.
Close ties to the science city of Darmstadt
In February 2024, Mayor Hanno Benz honored Rita Süssmuth with the Silver Medal of Merit of the City of Darmstadt been appointed honorary chairwoman of the German-Polish Institute in January 2024
With her long-standing commitment, Süssmuth had a lasting impact on the work of the institute and strengthened its role as a place of dialogue between Germany and Poland.
Political activity and social engagement
Rita Süssmuth served as Federal Minister for Youth, Family and Health in the Kohl cabinet from 1985 to 1988, and from 1986 onwards as Minister for Youth, Family, Women and Health. From 1988 to 1998, she was President of the German Bundestag. Beyond her parliamentary work, she was involved in numerous civil society projects, including serving as President of the European Movement Germany and as President of the German-Polish Institute .
German Polish Institute as a place of dialogue
The German-Polish Institute was founded in Darmstadt in 1980 by Karl Dedecius . It is dedicated to Polish society, history, and culture, as well as German-Polish relations within the context of European integration. Under the presidency of Rita Süssmuth, the institute further gained importance as a bridge between the two countries.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/ho)
Featured image: Prof. Dr. Rita Süßmuth. Stella von Saldern
