Following a meeting with the state premiers of eastern Germany, CDU leader Friedrich Merz has affirmed his commitment to a closer working relationship with the region’s leadership. The meeting, held Thursday at Ettersburg Castle, addressed concerns about a perceived decline in confidence and economic anxieties within eastern Germany.
Merz emphasized the need for concerted action to restore optimism and bolster trust in political leadership across the nation, particularly in the eastern states. He acknowledged a sense of insecurity amongst the population and stressed a shared responsibility to re-establish clear pathways to future opportunities.
While acknowledging progress already made, Merz highlighted the ongoing need for development. He drew a comparison between eastern Germany and France (excluding their respective capital cities), noting that the average per capita income in eastern Germany is presently higher than in France. He further cited infrastructural limitations, specifically the need for improved regional rail and road connections and a deficit in large-scale airport facilities, as key areas requiring further investment and attention. The commitment to enhanced collaboration signals a focused approach to addressing regional concerns and fostering renewed prosperity in eastern Germany.