As former German Chancellor Olof Scholz left office, he was ceremoniously seen off with the participation of the Bundeswehr - the Armed Forces Orchestra of the country. Torches, military music, and a special official ceremony were performed based on Prussian traditions.
This is the highest expression of respect in Germany, and such a ceremony is reserved only for the Chancellor, President, or Minister of Defense. Scholz performed three musical pieces of his choice: "In My Life" by The Beatles, an excerpt from Bach's music, and Aretha Franklin's "Respect."
Speaking at the ceremony, he thanked his colleagues and the entire nation. "The transfer of power is an integral part of democracy, we must protect it. We are together to make Germany strong," Scholz said.
He also emphasized that Germany needs to become faster and more modern, noting that his government has laid a solid foundation on this path. Scholz, who called the chancery a "great honor," wished the new chancellor, Friedrich Mertz, good luck.
