History of Germany–Luxembourg relations in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 11, 2025

Germany and Luxembourg have maintained peaceful and friendly bilateral relations since April 1951. Their relationship is characterized by cooperation within international organizations like the EU, NATO, OECD, and the UN. A notable aspect is the participation of both countries' heads of state in the annual meeting of German-speaking countries, highlighting their shared cultural and political ties.

1914: German Troops Occupy Luxembourg

In 1914, during the First World War, German troops occupied Luxembourg, using the First German Embassy as the Grand Headquarters, causing discontent. The Septemberprogramm authorized by German Chancellor Theobald von Bethmann Hollweg planned an annexation of Luxembourg into Germany.

1918: End of World War I

In 1918, the First World War ended, marking the end of the German occupation of Luxembourg that began in 1914.

May 1940: Wehrmacht invades Luxembourg

On the night of May 9–10, 1940, the Wehrmacht invaded Luxembourg as part of its attack on France during World War II, initiating an occupation that lasted until 1944. Grand Duchess Charlotte fled into exile with her family and government.

August 1942: Germany Annexes Luxembourg

In August 1942, Germany formally annexed occupied Luxembourg into the National Socialist German Reich, furthering its control over the region until the Liberation of Luxembourg in 1944.

1944: Liberation of Luxembourg

In 1944, Luxembourg was liberated from German occupation, ending the period that began with the Wehrmacht invasion in May 1940.

April 1951: Establishment of Bilateral Relations

In April 1951, Germany and Luxembourg officially established bilateral relations, marking the beginning of a peaceful and friendly 74-year relationship characterized by cooperation in international organizations.

1951: Diplomatic Relations Re-established

In 1951, diplomatic relations between Germany and Luxembourg were re-established after the war, marking a new era of trusted neighborly relations. Both countries became founding members of the European Coal and Steel Community and advocates of European Integration.

2020: Population Exchange

In 2020, approximately 23,000 Luxembourgers resided in Germany, while about 17,000 Germans lived in Luxembourg, illustrating the population exchange between the two countries.