(de-news.net) – The Union parties and the SPD have successfully concluded their exploratory discussions. Pending approval from party committees, formal coalition negotiations are anticipated. Principal agreements have been made. “We have reached consensus on a wide range of substantive issues,” stated CDU leader Friedrich Merz. He further described the negotiations as being conducted in an “exceptionally positive and collegial atmosphere.”
At national borders, individuals seeking asylum may be denied entry, contingent upon coordination with neighboring states and the framework of stationary border controls. The reformed citizenship legislation, which includes reduced naturalization waiting periods and provisions for dual citizenship for non-EU nationals, will remain.
The “broad middle class” is poised to benefit from proposed income tax reforms and an enhanced commuter allowance. To address escalating costs, a comprehensive reform of the care system is envisaged. Furthermore, the electricity tax is slated for reduction to the EU-mandated minimum, potentially decreasing costs by at least five cents per kilowatt-hour. Transmission network fees, a component of electricity pricing, will also be halved.
Retirees who opt to continue working voluntarily may earn up to 2,000 euros per month tax-free. The “mothers’ pension” will be expanded to account for three years of child-rearing for children born prior to 1992. Additionally, overtime exceeding full-time contractual obligations will be exempt from taxation.
The independent minimum wage commission will be retained, with the objective of achieving a minimum wage of 15 euros by 2026. The citizen’s income framework will undergo a transformation into a basic security system for job seekers, incorporating full benefit withdrawal for individuals who repeatedly decline reasonable employment opportunities.
The rent cap will be extended for an additional two years, while the VAT on restaurant meals will be permanently reduced to 7 percent. The proposed termination of agricultural diesel subsidies will be reversed. What is more, to stimulate demand for electric vehicles, purchase incentives will be reinstated.
A reassessment of the recently revised Bundestag election law is under consideration, following criticism regarding the exclusion of certain directly elected candidates from parliamentary mandates. Finally, the continuation of the Germany ticket for public transportation beyond the current year will be a subject of coalition negotiations.
