Lord Mayor Frank Klingebiel is pleased to note: "The countless letters of support and the personal commitment of MP Sigmar Gabriel and myself for a right of residence for Mr. Shamlawi have had a positive effect. By accepting the case for consideration by the Hardship Commission, the first and most important step has been taken."

Mr. Shamlawi's stay in Salzgitter has been secured in accordance with Section 5, Paragraph 4, Sentence 2 of the Hardship Commission Ordinance of the State of Lower Saxony by means of a toleration order issued by the Ministry of the Interior until the decision on the petition is made by the Hardship Commission.

Klingebiel concludes: "I am very happy for Mr. Shamlawi and his supporters. I am now very confident that the Hardship Commission will also reach a positive decision on the matter. This petition shows once again that many people can make a difference together. That's our Salzgitter! We stand together here!"