BERLIN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Thursday called for protection of unity against extremism and populism as the country marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe with ceremonies in Berlin.
Speaking at Germany's lower house of parliament, the Bundestag, Steinmeier stated Germany's responsibility for "unleashing this criminal war and dragging all of Europe into the abyss."
He stressed that the process of coming to terms with the past was a long and painful process for Germany.
"We are all children of May 8," Steinmeier said, calling on Germans to protect their freedom and democracy, citing challenges including growing extremist forces in the country.
Following the war and genocide, the international community had drawn lessons and built an international order based on international law.
However, Steinmeier voiced concerns about challenges to this order today, while reaffirming Germany's commitment to the principles of this order. Enditem
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