“This is the basis for us being able to go out to tender in the international competition this year,” said Giffey. “We will call on the best architects and investors internationally to participate in a concept for the ICC.” The building, which has been a listed building since 2019, was once one of the largest convention centers in the world. It has only been used sporadically for years. Giffey has long been campaigning for the building not to be written off. In September 2023, the black-red Senate decided to launch an international competition. It anticipates total costs of 1.6 million euros.