(de-news.net) – Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) has cautioned CDU leader Friedrich Merz against unilateral national actions in migration policy, emphasizing adherence to the constitution, laws, and EU treaties. Scholz highlighted that neighboring countries criticized Merz’s proposals for permanent border controls. He advocated for a unified European approach, referencing the Common European Asylum System (CEAS), which the government aims to implement before the Bundestag elections. Scholz condemned the Union’s willingness to collaborate with the AfD, labeling it “outrageous.” On the other hand, FDP leader Christian Lindner expressed a desire for even stricter migration controls from the Union, such as linking development aid for Afghanistan to repatriation agreements. He confirmed FDP’s support for the Union’s proposals and the influx limitation law.

Meanwhile, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD) warned the Union parties against aligning with the AfD to tighten migration policies, advocating for laws that enhance security and reduce irregular migration from the democratic center. She emphasized the importance of the European asylum reform and new federal police laws. Rhineland-Palatinate’s Prime Minister Alexander Schweitzer (SPD) criticized Merz’s uncompromising stance, arguing that democracy requires negotiation. He accused Merz of aligning with the far-right AfD and dismissed the feasibility of extensive border controls.

Finally, Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir (Greens) urged the Union not to panic in response to the AfD, stressing the need for a pro-European, collective approach to address the underlying causes of populism. He warned that undermining Europe would benefit populists seeking to destabilize democratic order.