Veronika Grimm, Germany’s economic spokesperson, strongly endorsed Chancellor Friedrich Merk ( CDU)’s economic strategy amid the dispute with France over boosting European competitiveness.
“France is pushing for more protectionism, while Germany rightly argues for deregulation and other measures to improve the business environment and spark growth in emerging technology sectors” Grimm told the “Rheinische Post” on Thursday, ahead of the EU summit. She added that competing with China through subsidies and tariffs is futile, noting that Chinese firms now match Germany and Europe in the production of goods that German companies have traditionally exported.
Grimm stressed that it is better to create conditions that allow German innovations to translate into added value and thus into growth potential. “We must excel in new technology fields and take leadership there” she said. She outlined what she believes should be Europe’s new economic and growth model: fewer or better‑regulated rules, increased research and excellence, and a revitalised education system that has long been neglected.
The heads of state and government of the 27 EU Member States will convene in Belgium on Thursday, aiming to reach a consensus on how Europe can secure its position in the global competition.