Thorsten Frei, the designated Federal Chancellery chief, sees the reform of the social security systems as a major task for the future coalition with the SPD. “The challenges are clear for all – in the big themes of pensions, health and care” said the CDU politician to RTL and ntv. “Demography is sitting on our backs and that is not a party political issue, but it is simply objectively so.” This government and any subsequent one will be confronted with it. “The earlier and more substantively we act, the easier it will be for us to succeed. That’s why it’s a matter of urgency. That is also known and clear to the SPD and that’s why I am sure that we will find good solutions on this path.”
Frei sees his new tasks as Kanzleramtschef as a challenge: “I have great respect for it. The challenges and tasks are enormous. In foreign policy. In domestic policy.” It needs seriousness and clarity, “no frills, but the problems must be tackled head-on.