2_2_DiscoverGermany_February15_Issue23:Scan Magazine 1

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Besides a robust economic development, Brandenburg offers a high quality of life. This view is shared by both citizens and visitors. Brandenburg has become a top destination for tourists from around the world.

Special

Many visitors are attracted by our rich Prussian heritage, including the famous Sanssouci Palace, and historic sites such as castles, monasteries and old town centres. Theme Others come to Brandenburg because of its picturesque landscape and stunning nature with its abundant treasures.

Best of Brandenburg

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen Are you looking for a place which is good for business and investment? A place that is good for education and family life? A place that offers you ample opportunities for culture, sports and recreation? A place that is at the heart of Europe, connecting East and West? In short, a place that combines everything you need? TEXT: DR DIETMAR WOIDKE, MINISTER PRESIDENT OF BRANDENBURG | PHOTOS: DIE HOFFOTOGRAFEN

Then you should come to visit Brandenburg. Encompassing Berlin, Brandenburg is part of the vibrant“capital region”, one of Germany’s most dynamic regions in terms of innovation and economic growth. Companies benefit from the region’s excellent infrastructure, top-notch universities and a highly skilled workforce. Moreover, they benefit from an economic policy that supports businesses in the best way possible. In 2015, the citizens of Brandenburg celebrate the 25th anniversary of their state, which was re-established in the course of German reunification. The first years of Brandenburg were a rocky path. People enjoyed real democracy and freedom for the first time. But they also felt the pain of economic restructuring and massive layoffs. Back then, it was hard to imagine that sustainable recovery and redevelopment would be possible.

It was possible! It was possible thanks to the solidarity from our new partners – including Western federal states and the European Union. It was possible thanks to the commitment and the courage of our citizens. And, last but not least, it was possible thanks to a state government, which spared no efforts to prevent large-scale deindustrialization. Today, we can say: We are now on the right track. Brandenburg has become an attractive location for companies, among them large global players, such as Rolls Royce, Mercedes or BASF. Moreover, the BerlinBrandenburg region benefits from a high concentration of academic and research institutions, with positive effects on startup activity and entrepreneurship. In 2013, for example, new businesses provided jobs for around 17,000 people while generating revenues of 1.7 billion Euros.

If you like water, Brandenburg is definitively the place to be. We have more than 3,000 lakes and 30,000 km of watercourses, surrounded by forests and nature conservation areas. The beautiful Spree Forest, the Oderbruch area in Eastern Brandenburg or the unspoilt nature of the Uckermark region are perfect for those seeking recreation. Others prefer the UNESCO heritage in Potsdam or our stunning industrial monuments in the Lusatia region. Whatever you are most interested in: Brandenburg has a lot to offer. In 2015 you can attend a special highlight: The federal horticultural exhibition “BUGA” [Bundesgartenschau] in the Havel region, an area whose settlement dates back to the Middle Ages. Starting in April, the BUGA will guide you through impressive landscapes of flowers, parks and historic buildings. If you are planning a family trip, think about buying a BUGA ticket. You see, there are plenty of reasons to come to Brandenburg. We are looking forward to your visit! SincerelyYours,

Dr. Dietmar Woidke, Minister President of Brandenburg

Issue 23 | February 2015 | 55