(de-news.net) – Chancellor Friedrich Merz has defended Germany’s temporarily tightened migration policy, emphasizing, at his summer press conference in Berlin, the transitional nature of the steps taken. He also highlighted the economic policy measures launched by his administration, which aim to initiate a turnaround in the economic cycle.

Despite internal disputes within the coalition — such as disagreements over the election of constitutional judges and electricity tax reductions — Merz described the black-red alliance as stable and functional. He asserted that setbacks are an inherent part of governance, but are managed constructively through partnership.

With regard to economic development, Merz identified overcoming the recession as his highest priority. Measures such as corporate tax relief and indicators such as the upward revisions in economic forecasts pointed to a positive trend, as did the growing interest in Germany as a business location.

In the context of the trade dispute between the EU and the United States, Merz ruled out the possibility of tariff exemptions and expressed support for the European Commission’s negotiating efforts. Talks with Washington were said to be in an advanced stage. Lower tariffs, Merz affirmed, would be mutually beneficial.

Merz further reiterated that the migration policy adjustments were necessary to prevent overburdening municipalities, yet only sustainable in the short term. A lasting solution, he argued, could only be achieved at the European level – through improved protection of the external borders.