Chancellor Friedrich Merz calls for renewed Franco-German cooperation

Friedrich Merz emphasizes the need for renewed Franco-German collaboration to tackle Europe's security and economic challenges. During a joint news conference with French President Emmanuel Macron, Merz outlined plans for deeper European integration and highlighted initiatives such as strengthening the Franco-German Defence and Security Council and aligning national defence projects. The visit comes amid growing concerns over US security guarantees following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and highlights potential shifts in Germany’s foreign policy unity under Merz’s leadership.