Germany and France announce closer defense ties and joint arms projects

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron have pledged to deepen their countries' partnership, announcing enhanced cooperation in defense and joint arms projects. Speaking after a joint German-French ministerial council meeting, Merz highlighted the "indispensable" nature of their collaboration amid significant global threats.

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Our work between Germany and France is indispensable in this time.

Merz identified Russia's aggression, unfair competition from China, and challenges in transatlantic relations as key reasons for strengthening the Franco-German bond. "The friendship with France and our joint commitment to a united Europe are the core of German foreign policy," Merz stated, assuring Macron, "You can count on us, you can rely on us."

The ministers discussed defense, economy, and European Union matters, with a particular focus on continued support for Ukraine. Both Germany and France aim to provide ongoing financial and military aid to ensure a peace that upholds Ukraine's sovereignty and European security. As part of deepened security cooperation, German forces will participate in a French military nuclear exercise for the first time.

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The friendship with France and our joint commitment to a united Europe are the core of German foreign policy.

While a previous joint fighter jet project (FCAS) faced industrial hurdles, a new roadmap for the arms industry is in place, focusing on areas like cloud solutions. The leaders also aim to foster closer industrial ties and advance the EU's goals, including fair trade and production conditions.

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You can count on us, you can rely on us.

Macron underscored the significance of the Franco-German friendship for the EU's progress, stating that the bloc falters when the two nations cannot agree. He also emphasized the importance of military coordination, while clarifying that France alone finances its nuclear deterrence. The joint efforts, he added, aim to create uncertainty for adversaries.

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If Germany and France cannot agree, the EU does not move forward.