Emmanuel Macron and Friedrich Merz are re-establishing Franco-German relations to enhance Europe's security and competitiveness. This was revealed during Merz's first trip as German chancellor, where they announced plans for a joint defence and security council to boost cooperation. After a period of stagnation in their partnership due to political instability, the two leaders aim to coordinate economic reforms and strengthen European projections amid various challenges, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and shifts in U.S. security policy. Analysts express cautious optimism about this renewed leadership under Merz.
"A reset in Franco-German relations is vital to help Europe become more secure, competitive, and unified to overcome enormous security and economic challenges," said Merz.
"We will only be able to meet these challenges if France and Germany stand even more closely together than in the past," emphasized Merz during the conference.
"The Franco-German engine has traditionally helped drive the European project but has all but stalled of late due to infighting and inaction," said the French president.
"What's needed now is German leadership that doesn't just observe European policy, but helps shape it," commented Jana Puglierin.
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