Germany’s new Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, presented his government’s agenda before the Bundestag, highlighting key priorities such as economic growth, migration management, and defense.
In his speech, Merz emphasized that Germany’s foreign policy would focus on strengthening the transatlantic unity between the U.S. and Europe on Ukraine. He also made a bold declaration, stating that Germany aims to have the strongest conventional military in Europe, an objective he described as essential for an economy as large and powerful as Germany’s.
“It is appropriate for the largest and most powerful economy in Europe. And our partners expect this,” Merz stated.
Additionally, he expressed Germany’s ambition to take on a more prominent leadership role in Europe, reaffirming its role as a leader on the continent by rebuilding trust with partners and supporting Ukraine. He also mentioned strengthening Franco-German relations with President Macron, alongside upcoming visits to Warsaw and Brussels.
On the European Union front, Merz vowed to end Germany’s policy of abstention in important decisions, signaling a shift in the country’s diplomatic approach.
Regarding NATO, Merz was clear: “We must be able to defend ourselves, so we do not need to do so. Strength deters aggressors. Weakness invites them.”
