(de-news.net) – At the outset of his tenure, the new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) has paid a visit to French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, where both leaders committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation. They emphasized that addressing contemporary challenges effectively required Germany and France to work more closely than in the past. As part of this initiative, they planned to revitalize the Franco-German partnership and further develop frameworks such as the E3 process with the United Kingdom and the Weimar Triangle with Poland. Merz indicated that future support for Ukraine would be better coordinated, involving respective heads of government as well as defense and foreign ministers.

The Chancellor underscored the significance of Franco-German friendship, describing it as a valuable legacy of reconciliation and political foresight. Macron, in turn, welcomed the fact that Merz had chosen Paris for his first official visit, considering it an honor. He stressed the importance of not only deepening cooperation between Germany and France but also fostering lasting friendship. Both leaders shared the belief that European integration necessitated closer alignment of their respective economic and social policies. Macron also advocated for greater European sovereignty and insisted on strengthening the continent’s competitiveness while prioritizing climate protection.

During the visit, Merz announced plans to expand Franco-German defense cooperation. Proposals included reinforcing the bilateral defense council and deepening military-industrial collaboration. He also urged all EU member states to increase their defense spending.

The Chancellor was accompanied by Foreign Minister Wadephul, who emphasized the need to reinvigorate the Franco-German axis, asserting that Europe must regain momentum. Later in the day, Merz was scheduled to visit Poland, where discussions with Prime Minister Donald Tusk were expected to center on the conflict in Ukraine and on irregular migration.