Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media Monika Grütters has extended Dieter Kosslick’s contract as director of the Berlinale until May 31, 2019.

Kosslick assumed directorship of the Berlin International Film Festival in May 2001, cementing the position of the EFM (European Film Market) and rooting German film within the Berlinale among other achievements.

“I’m very pleased that I’ll be helping shape the profile of the Berlinale for another five years,” said Kosslick.

“I thank Federal Government Commissioner Monika Grütters and the KBB Board of Directors for their great support and confidence in my work.”