Meaning: The quote provided by Angela Merkel, the former Chancellor of Germany, addresses the issue of foreign workers who were initially invited to Germany in the 1960s and the subsequent realization that they have become a permanent part of the country. This statement reflects the complex dynamics of immigration and integration, and it is significant in understanding the historical and social context of Germany.

In the early 1960s, Germany faced a significant labor shortage due to the post-war economic boom. To address this, the German government initiated recruitment programs to invite foreign workers, particularly from countries such as Turkey, Italy, Greece, and Spain, to fill the labor gaps. Many of these workers arrived in Germany with the expectation that their stay would be temporary, and they would eventually return to their home countries. However, as time passed, it became evident that a large number of these foreign workers had put down roots in Germany and were establishing permanent communities.

Merkel's quote acknowledges the initial misconception held by many Germans that the foreign workers would only temporarily reside in the country. The phrase "We kidded ourselves a while, we said: 'They won't stay, sometime they will be gone.'" reflects the sense of denial and wishful thinking that was prevalent at the time. It highlights the gap between the initial expectations and the reality of the situation.

The quote goes on to emphasize the need to confront this reality, as Merkel states, "But this isn't reality." This acknowledgment of the permanence of the foreign workers' presence in Germany speaks to the need for a shift in attitudes and policies towards immigration and integration. It reflects a recognition of the contributions and the evolving role of immigrant communities in German society.

The issue of immigrant integration has been a prominent and ongoing challenge for Germany. The descendants of the foreign workers who arrived in the 1960s have become an integral part of German society, and their experiences have shaped the country's cultural, social, and economic landscape. However, the process of integration has not been without its difficulties, and issues such as discrimination, social cohesion, and cultural diversity continue to be subjects of debate and policy consideration.

Merkel's acknowledgment of the permanence of the foreign workers' presence in Germany can be seen as a call for a more inclusive and realistic approach to immigration and integration. It reflects a recognition of the need to address the long-term implications of immigration and to create policies that support the integration and inclusion of immigrant communities.

In conclusion, Angela Merkel's quote captures the complex and evolving nature of immigration and integration in Germany. It reflects the initial misconceptions about the temporary nature of foreign workers' presence and the subsequent acknowledgment of their permanent place in German society. The quote underscores the need to confront the reality of immigration and to develop inclusive policies that address the long-term impact of immigration on the country.