Germany's foreign minister Guido Westerwelle has formalised his union with his partner and businessman Michael Mronz. Although only close family were present for the ceremony, media reports say the Mayor of Bonn officiated at the couple's union. In Germany, gay marriage is not recognised by the state, but since 2001 "registered partnerships" for same-sex couples are allowed, which provide some of the rights of marriage. Westerwelle, 48, came out in 2004 at chancellor Angela Merkel's 5oth birthday celebrations. He and 43-year old Mronz, who organises sports events, had met in 2003 and have been a couple ever since.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Sunday, 19th September 2010 - 1:15am