After SPD leader and finance minister Lars Klingbeil’s reform proposal, the Social Democrats urged the Union to demonstrate a willingness to compromise. “I no longer expect the coalition partner to block my ideas; what I demand are clear, necessary reforms for our country” said Dirk Wiese, parliamentary secretary to the “Rheinische Post”‘s Friday edition. Wiese praised Klingbeil’s strong, forward‑looking, reform‑ready speech and said that this principle for a modern Germany will now be pursued. He added that he hopes to reach a comprehensive package with the Union in the near future.