Hendrik Wüst, the premier of North Rhine-Westphalia, expressed confidence in the federal government’s performance. He told the “Rheinische Post” that the Black‑Red coalition is providing the right answers to Germany’s challenging situation, and that the federal government is far better than its reputation suggests. Wüst cited the “investment booster” and greater reliability in the energy policy that is so essential for industry as examples of constructive action. “The groundwork has been laid. Now it must be followed up quickly”.
Wüst also welcomed the emphasis the chancellor has placed on the economy. He said many people are once again worried about job security, but that fear must be dispelled through growth and favorable conditions that motivate companies to invest again. “It is important and right that Friedrich Merz is focusing on economic policy this year” he added.
At the same time, Wüst called for new alliances to inject momentum into economic policy. He noted how North Rhine-Westphalia’s engagement with the federal government on economic initiatives involved constructive cooperation with social partners and could serve as a model for the federal level. By forming a “Coalition for Innovation and Jobs” it is possible to break away from the usual summit logic, which typically ends with each side presenting demands and then parting ways. Instead, a genuine, lasting, and productive dialogue on safeguarding industry and employment must be established. Both the federal government and the states should sit at the table alongside social partners so that agreements translate into concrete policy.