Federal Minister Friedrich Merz (CDU) will visit the Social Democratic Party (SPD) parliamentary group on Tuesday to advocate for the government’s reform agenda and decisive action. Speaking before the group meeting, Merz stated that although they hold a majority in the German Bundestag, they must demonstrate to the public that this majority is capable of making necessary decisions-decisions that the majority of the population will accept and respect.
He stressed the immediate need for calm and confidence, adding that the government requires both trust and courage. While acknowledging that the CDU/CSU Union and the SPD are distinct parties-a division he expects to remain-Merz made a plea for mutual restraint. He asked both the CDU parliamentary group and the SPD parliamentary group not to highlight differences publicly.
Instead, he urged everyone to focus on their common ground and fulfill their responsibility to Germany, just as they outlined in the coalition agreement. While admitting that the coalition “is currently not in the best mood” Merz remained optimistic. He expressed confidence that they would overcome difficulties, recapture the strengths of the country, and that the majority of people in Germany recognize the opportunities available. Those opportunities, he stated, are what he intends to discuss with his SPD colleagues.