President of the Federal Republic of Germany in the Evolution of the XXI Century Foreign Policy

The article presents an analysis of the institution of the presidency of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) in light of the country’s active participation in international relations. It outlines the historical development of this institution within the domestic and foreign policy areas, focusing on the relatively unexplored period of the last quarter of a century. An outline of the historical prerequisites for building relations between the President of Germany and foreign countries at the highest level is given. Conclusion dwells upon the fact that the political class of the country, represented by its government, increasingly involves the President of the FRG in international events, aiming to leverage his position as a diplomatic force, particularly regarding Russia. At the same time, the article identifies areas where the President acts independently and where there are opportunities for the development of the institution. The article examines the specifics of the foreign policy activities of the presidents of the 21st century, in particular, Johannes Rau, Horst Köhler, Christian Wulff, Joachim Gauck and Frank-Walter Steinmeier.