German consul general calls for no war as 80th anniversary of end of World War II observed

The consulate general of the Federal Republic of Germany in Karachi commemorated the 80th anniversary of liberation from National Socialism and end of World War II on Thursday with a memorial service.

Representatives of Allied nations attended the event, including the consul general of France, British deputy high commissioner, acting consul general of the United States and officials from the German consulate.

The memorial service honoured the millions of lives lost during World War II and reflected on the significance of the day. The consul general of the Federal Republic of Germany, Dr Rüdiger Lotz, emphasised the importance of remembering the past and learning from history.

"It is our duty to learn from history. Peace is not something to be taken for granted. It is fragile and must be secured anew every day — through dialogue, through understanding, and through unwavering respect for human dignity," he said. “Especially at a time when conflicts are flaring up again around the world and authoritarian forces are on the rise, it is our duty to take a clear stand: for democracy, for the rule of law, for peaceful coexistence in Europe and the world.”

He said that Germany stood for the responsibility that arose from history — the need to protect democracy, the rule of law and human rights. Today, 80 years later, the message of May 8 was more relevant than ever, which was there should be no war or hatred again, he added.

He said we must never allow political delusion and lust for power to triumph over reason and compassion. “Let us stand together to ensure that the words ‘never again warn are not just a vow from the past but a living commitment for the present and the future,” he said.