Overview
- The Auswärtiges Amt confirmed it has instructed embassies and consulates to display a portrait of Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul alongside the Federal President’s image.
- Media report that an internal letter prescribes the exact photograph, print size and framing, indicating a centrally managed rollout.
- The ministry says the move aims to better connect missions with headquarters, with ambassadors to be more involved in political talks during the minister’s visits.
- Officials cite a precedent at the Defence Ministry, where portraits of the serving defence minister hang at Bundeswehr locations.
- Some diplomats voiced irritation and opposition politicians, including Green MP Janosch Dahmen, criticized the optics and questioned the necessity of the change.