Deputy Chancellor and Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil stressed the need for a tighter partnership with nations in the Global South during the Munich Security Conference. He told German broadcasters RTL and NTV that some countries, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, share similar values with Germany and have signaled a willingness to cooperate closely with Europe.
Klingbeil highlighted the importance of strengthening ties with actual Global‑South partners like South Africa, Brazil, and India. He acknowledged that complete alignment is unlikely but urged deeper cooperation. He pointed out that while China and Russia engage on the world stage, Europeans must also be present, asking rhetorically, “Where are you, Europeans?”
The SPD politician sees this push for collaboration extending into areas such as the Capital Markets Union. He believes a significant step forward is essential to advance this goal. “Cooperation is a strength” he added, contrasting it with the United States’ “America First” stance, and insisted that fostering cooperation offers a wiser, stronger path for Europe.