Natalie Kautter, the former German Ambassador to Slovenia, has officially assumed the role of Director for the Western Balkans at the Federal Foreign Office in Berlin.
Kautter succeeds Michael Reiffenstuel, who previously headed the strategic diplomatic division.
A Commitment to Deepening Regional Partnerships
The newly appointed director announced her transition through an official video address on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing her commitment to maintaining Germany’s active diplomatic presence in the region.
GERMAN FOREIGN OFFICE REGIONAL LEADERSHIP
INCUMBENT DIRECTOR PREDECESSOR
─────────────────────────────── ────────────────────────────────
• Natalie Kautter • Michael Reiffenstuel
• Former German Ambassador to Slovenia • Handed over the Western Balkans portfolio
• Assumes immediate operational charge • Credited with stabilizing key files
Kautter emphasized her intent to build directly upon the foundational diplomatic initiatives established during her predecessor’s tenure:
“Hello, I am Natalie Kautter, the new Director for the Western Balkans at the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue the excellent work of my predecessor, Ambassador Michael Reiffenstuel. I look forward to deepening our partnerships across the region.”
— Natalie Kautter, Director for the Western Balkans
Germany’s Strategic Focus on the Western Balkans
The leadership rotation occurs at a highly volatile time for the Western Balkans, as the region navigates parallel diplomatic challenges including international mediation, environmental disputes, and European integration. Kautter’s prior experience as an ambassador within Europe is expected to play a central role in Berlin’s ongoing efforts to foster regional stability, encourage democratic reforms, and counter foreign influence across the Balkan Peninsula.
