German President's Historic Guernica Visit: A Symbol of Reconciliation

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier became the first German head of state to visit Guernica, reflecting on the Nazi air raid during Spain's civil war. Accompanied by Spain's King Felipe and Basque officials, he acknowledged Germany's historical guilt and emphasized the need for peace and human rights awareness.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier made a historic visit to Guernica, marking the first visit by a German head of state to the Basque town, infamous for its devastation by a Nazi air raid during Spain's civil war.

Steinmeier, joined by Spain's King Felipe and Basque regional president Imanol Pradales, laid a wreath at a cemetery dedicated to victims of the air raid. He spoke of Germany's responsibility for the past atrocities and the need for vigilance in protecting peace and human rights.

The visit coincides with a rise in popularity of Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, prompting political discourse around the implications of growing extremist influences. Earlier in Spain, President Steinmeier visited Picasso's painting "Guernica," a powerful anti-war symbol.

(With inputs from agencies.)