Friedrich Merz Arrives in Paris for First Overseas Trip as Chancellor-Elect
Friedrich Merz, the soon-to-be Chancellor of Germany, arrived in Paris on Wednesday evening, marking his first overseas trip following his party’s election victory on Sunday. At the Élysée Palace, Merz was received by French President Emmanuel Macron.
After a private meeting, Merz expressed his gratitude to Macron for his friendship and trust in the Franco-German relations, stating that he is hopeful that Germany and France can achieve great things for Europe together. Macron did not make any statements regarding the meeting.
According to reports from CDU circles, the three-hour meeting took place in a friendly atmosphere and Merz and Macron reportedly agreed to start a new chapter in the relations between Berlin and Paris. There was said to be great agreement and numerous points of departure for joint initiatives discussed during the conversation.
On Sunday, Merz had warned that the United States under Donald Trump are indifferent to the fate of Europe and therefore a strong, independent Europe would be the absolute priority of a Merz government. Additionally, he called on Paris and London to engage in talks about extending their nuclear protection to Germany, in the event that the United States withdraws its troops, including nuclear weapons, from the country.