In a symbolic gesture of diplomatic goodwill, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen was received with military honors at the German Chancellor’s office by Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday.

The meeting, which had been preceded by a statement emphasizing the focus on bilateral and European cooperation, as well as international politics, was an opportunity for the two leaders to discuss a range of topics.

As the leader of Denmark’s social democratic government since 2019, Frederiksen is known for her party’s strict migration policies. This shared stance on a key issue may have facilitated a cordial conversation with Merz, who has previously received praise from the Danish Prime Minister.