“I don’t think I’m exaggerating to say that we’ve never seen the old year so hard in the last 15 years and we’ve never looked forward to the new year with such hope, despite all the fears and skeptics,” says Merkel. “We know what we can do about the virus. In addition to vaccinations, we have an effective means in our hands if each of us follows the rules. All of us together, “he says.
Germany began vaccination shortly after Christmas, but it will take several months for the vaccination population to reach 60 or 70 percent. This limit is considered necessary to achieve collective immunity. “I’ll get vaccinated when it’s my turn,” says Merkel.
A pandemic is the task of the century
He describes the ending year 2020 as strange, because all ideas and plans have been paralyzed by coronavirus. In addition, according to her, it affected the very essence of human behavior, ie the desire for contact, hugs, conversation or celebrations. “The virus has made normal behavior a risk and unusual protective measures a common thing,” he says.
The Chancellor points out that this year’s pandemic was also a year of learning, as it was necessary to respond to the coronavirus, even though nothing definite was known about it. “We had to make decisions that at first we could only hope would turn out to be the right ones,” he says.
Merkel considers the pandemic a historic crisis. “The coronavirus pandemic has been and continues to be a political, social and economic challenge of the century,” he says. She adds that she is well aware of the need for trust and patience. “And thank you from the bottom of my heart,” he says.
Thanks to the people on the front line
In her speech, the Chancellor sharply criticizes the proponents of conspiracy theories. According to Merkel, not only are they lying and dangerous, but they are also cynical and callous to the victims and the bereaved. She assures herself that she remembers the dead and their relatives. “Especially tonight,” he adds.
In its message, it appreciates the work of health professionals and carers, but also employees of supermarkets, catering, public transport workers, police officers and teachers. He also thanks everyone who wears the veils responsibly and keeps his distance.
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Germany has developed the first reliable tests and a vaccine
Merkel concludes by recalling that it was Germany that first came up with a reliable test to determine coronavirus infection, and that it was the German company BioNTech that developed the coronavirus vaccine. The substance BioNTech prepared together with the American company Pfizer has become the first approved vaccine in many countries, including Europe and the USA.
At the same time, the Chancellor emphasized that these successes only confirm the need for European and international cooperation. The German company BioNTech was founded by a couple of Turkish origin, and the company also employs members of sixty nations.
Germany is facing parliamentary elections in September, in which Merkel will no longer run for chancellor. It is therefore probable that the new chancellor will turn to the Germans with another New Year’s message.
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