Ahead of Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s (CDU) departure for the Gulf region, the SPD-a coalition partner-welcomed his visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Adis Ahmetovic, the SPD’s spokesperson for foreign affairs in the Bundestag, told the TV channel ntv that “we need strategic resilience in a multipolar world that is increasingly drifting away from a rule‑based order”. He added that this order has been undermined not only by Russia but also by former U.S. President Trump, making a realistic foreign policy imperative.
Ahmetovic urged Europe to rapidly build resilience and further its sovereignty, stressing that “it would benefit us and give strategic breathing room if value‑driven and interest‑driven foreign policy were not set against each other”. He pointed to the human‑rights issues in the three authoritarian monarchies and warned that the stakes are high for continental stability. “We must act wisely now, even if some actions do not immediately earn applause from observers” he said.
The SPD deputy highlighted the substantial opportunities for deeper cooperation with the Gulf states, such as importing green hydrogen, expanding trade ties and pursuing diplomatic efforts to stabilize neighbouring regions. He emphasized that Merz’s trip should not be reduced to weapons deals but should address a range of issues-including economic collaboration, investment, the development of green energy, and security cooperation. “If all of these priorities remain in focus, Merz can advance his agenda and the visit can succeed” he concluded.