Friedrich Merz, the Union’s chancellor candidate, met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss enhancing German-French relations and the transatlantic partnership. The three-hour meeting at the Élysée Palace, described as cordial, followed Merz’s electoral victory and emphasized collaborative opportunities. Merz, a proponent of Franco-German partnership, aims to strengthen ties, especially in defense, amidst challenges in current relations. Meanwhile, Macron’s discussions with Trump highlight ongoing disparities between the U.S. and Europe on key issues.
Friedrich Merz, the Union’s chancellor candidate, engaged in a significant meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, focusing on strengthening German-French relations and the transatlantic partnership with the USA.
Just three days following his electoral victory, Merz was welcomed by Macron for a confidential dialogue at the Élysée Palace, arriving shortly after 8:00 PM to discuss pivotal issues affecting both nations.
According to sources within the Union, the three-hour meeting signified a desire to embark on a new era for German-French relations. However, specifics from their discussion remain undisclosed, and the French administration has yet to provide any official statements.
Union Highlights Positive Atmosphere
The Union described the conversation as taking place in an exceptionally cordial environment, with a substantial consensus on various topics and numerous opportunities for collaborative initiatives. Merz took to the platform X, expressing gratitude in both German and French: ‘Thank you very much, dear @EmmanuelMacron, for your friendship and your trust in German-French relations. Together, our countries can achieve great things for Europe.’
This swift meeting between the prospective chancellor and the French president occurred shortly after the election, reflecting Merz’s campaign promise to enhance German-French relations. It is believed that their discussions extended beyond bilateral matters, encompassing the broader international landscape.
The current state of German-French relations presents challenges. Are the French already anticipating a shift with a new chancellor?
Merz’s Commitment to Collaboration
As the leader of the CDU, Merz is a strong proponent of the Franco-German partnership, viewing it as essential for advancing European interests. He has previously criticized incumbent Chancellor Olaf Scholz for not prioritizing relations with Paris, particularly given the recent tensions stemming from differing perspectives within the Berlin coalition and the contrasting styles of leadership between Scholz and Macron.
Following the Bundestag election results, Macron characterized the moment as ‘historic,’ suggesting unprecedented potential for German-French collaboration.
In the early hours post-election, Merz expressed his willingness to align more closely with Macron’s vision, particularly concerning the enhancement of Europe’s defense capabilities in light of shifts in U.S. policy under President Trump. On Wednesday, Macron briefed European Union leaders about his discussions with Trump in Washington, with Chancellor Scholz representing Germany.
Notably, a French president is set to undertake a state visit to Germany for the first time in 24 years.
Strengthening European Unity Towards the USA
On Monday, Macron conversed with Trump at the White House regarding negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing a ‘common’ approach with the U.S. Nevertheless, significant disparities remain between the United States and Europe on various critical issues.
In terms of trade policy, the cohesion and unity between Germany and France will be vital in navigating the challenges ahead. President Trump has previously criticized the European Union, claiming it was established to ‘rip off the United States,’ while imposing a 25 percent tariff on EU products. More details regarding this issue are anticipated to be announced shortly.
This topic was reported by tagesschau24 on February 26, 2025, at 9:30 PM.