The International Diplomats Programme has undoubtedly been one of the most memorable experiences during my time in Berlin. I am certain that, as I move on to future postings throughout my diplomatic career, I will continue to look back on it as one of the defining highlights of my professional life.

The Programme gave us a unique opportunity to engage first-hand with the wide range of actors involved in shaping German foreign policy. Beyond the Federal Foreign Office, where we had the honour of meeting State Secretary Dr Kotsch, as well as senior officials, we visited other federal ministries, the Bundestag and the Federal Chancellery. We also met with experts from political foundations, chambers of commerce and media representatives, among others.

These encounters fundamentally changed my understanding of how German foreign policy is formulated and implemented: not by a single institution, but through the interaction of multiple public- and private-sector actors with different perspectives and responsibilities. Coming from a unitary state such as Uruguay, gaining a deeper insight into the functioning of Germany’s federal system was particularly enlightening.

This broader perspective not only deepened my understanding of German foreign policy, but also prompted me to reflect on our role as diplomats in building bridges between these diverse actors.

The coordinators made a genuine effort to tailor the agenda to the participants’ diverse professional backgrounds and interests, ensuring that every activity was both relevant and enriching for everyone.

One of my favourites was the visit to Hamburg, where we witnessed the impressive take-off of the Beluga at the Airbus factory, an experience that truly left me speechless, and enjoyed a concert at the Elbphilharmonie, an unforgettable experience.

The ultimate highlight of the Programme was undoubtedly the trip to Brussels. Understanding German foreign policy necessarily involves understanding how the European institutions work, and vice versa. The visit to NATO, particularly in these complex times, was a true privilege. The meetings at DG ECHO, as well as with Ambassador Ossowski, Permanent Representative of Germany to the EU, were experiences of immense professional value.

However, above all, the most valuable aspect of the Programme was the extraordinary group of people who took part in it. The Programme Director, Ambassador Wiktorin, her team – Ms Brinkmann, Mr Reuter and Mr Louis – as well as each of the diplomats with whom I had the privilege of spending these six months made this experience an unforgettable one. The diversity of our countries, backgrounds and perspectives turned every conversation into a learning opportunity.

I leave the Programme not only with a much deeper understanding of this wonderful country, but also with a network of colleagues and friends. Together we shared experiences, thoughtful conversations, countless beers (as one does in Germany) and, above all, values that transcend borders. More than anything else, that is what I will take with me from this amazing Programme.