German coalition parties aim to make Germany more resilient

Germany's governing coalition parties, the CDU/CSU and SPD, have concluded a retreat in Münster with a commitment to bolster the nation's resilience against a range of threats. In a joint paper adopted at the meeting, they acknowledged that Germany and Europe are vulnerable to external shocks, economic pressure, and security challenges.

The parties plan to enhance public protection measures and strengthen defenses against drone and cyberattacks. A key objective is to accelerate the reform of intelligence services to counter "extremist aspirations and foreign influence," with the aim of completing this reform by the end of the year.

Discussions also heavily focused on the industrial sector, particularly the automotive industry, which supports a significant number of jobs. The coalition aims to support this sector by strengthening free trade agreements and advocating for technology-neutral transitions within the European Union. This includes allowing for transitional technologies like plug-in hybrids and efficient combustion engines alongside battery-electric vehicles beyond 2035.

Furthermore, the government intends to make autonomous driving a priority in the coming months, seeking to position Germany as a global leader in this field. The coalition also signaled a desire for greater protection of German and European industries against imports from China.