In all of the 190 countries in which we operate, we seek to engage with host communities in different ways - as an investor, employer, client and vendor. Our ability to sustain our business worldwide depends on our ability to build a strong future. Our Siemens Caring Hands and Siemens Generation21 programs, both launched in 2005, unite countless separate initiatives to improve social welfare and education. Through Siemens Caring Hands - with its employee volunteerism projects, giving campaigns, and disaster relief efforts - we honor our commitment to good citizenship in our host communities. With Siemens Generation 21, our program to promote excellence in education, we encourage children and young adults to develop an interest in technology and the natural sciences.

As an innovation-driven company reliant on upcoming generations of well-qualified employees with a passion for technology, we have created a raft of tailored education initiatives to complement school and university programs. A society's cultural heritage and current, living culture are key aspects of its identity and social life. Through our partronage of the arts and cultural sponsorship we support a variety of important events, programs and initiatives.