At a gathering at the elegant Bellevue Palace in Berlin, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier graciously extended his thanks to the Italian migrants—once referred to as “guest workers”—who significantly contributed to Germany’s post-war reconstruction.
The momentous occasion featured Italian President Sergio Mattarella. Together, they lauded the Italian guest workers’ vital role in Germany’s economic ascension, a contribution that cannot be overstated.
“Our gratitude and respect are owed, especially when considering the prejudice they often faced in Germany,” stated Steinmeier. Such sentiments make it clear that the story of Germany’s success is deeply intertwined with migration.
Notably, the journey began in December 1955. An agreement between Germany and Italy allowed innumerable Italians to journey northward for work, paving the way for greater prosperity.
These individuals brought about profound change. As Steinmeier humorously remarked, they added a touch of Italian flair to German society, beyond just culinary delights.
The event at Bellevue Palace highlighted six exemplary German-Italian town twinning partnerships. They were celebrated for initiatives in youth dialogue, civic engagement, cultural remembrance, sustainability, and social unity.
Endowed with a generous sum of €200,000 (approximately $230,000), the prize recognises the pivotal role of local authorities. President Mattarella emphasised the significance of creating networks that foster international connections at the municipal level.
To learn more about guest workers, you can read about [Germany’s migration history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gastarbeiter).
For a deeper understanding of the agreements made, explore this [comprehensive guide](https://www.dw.com/en/germanys-guest-worker-program-was-a-mistake/a-50830481) on Germany’s guest worker programme.
