Germany Assures France of Reliable Partnership, Boosts Ukraine Support
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz assured French President Emmanuel Macron of Germany's reliable partnership.
- Both leaders emphasized strengthening NATO's European pillar and supporting Ukraine.
- Germany and France are initiating new cooperation in nuclear deterrence, with Merz stressing continued collaboration regardless of future election outcomes.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has pledged Germany's unwavering support and reliability to France, underscoring the deep partnership between the two nations. Speaking at the conclusion of a German-French government meeting in Brรผhl, Merz stated that friendship with France and a united Europe are central to German foreign policy.
We count on you, and you can count on us. You can rely on us.
"We count on you, and you can count on us. You can rely on us," Merz told Macron, highlighting the invaluable nature of close German-French cooperation during challenging times. He specifically pointed to the shared commitment to supporting Ukraine as a key element of European security, vowing to continue this support with the goal of achieving a peace that preserves Ukraine's sovereignty and Europe's security.
The meeting also marked a significant step in defense cooperation, with Merz announcing a new joint approach to deterrence. "We are embarking on a new common path in deterrence," he stated, thanking Macron for his contributions to the productive government council. This meeting was likely the last of its kind with Macron before next year's French elections.
Our goal is a peace that preserves the sovereignty of Ukraine and the security of Europe.
Merz reiterated Germany's commitment to fostering a deeper, trust-based relationship with France, irrespective of electoral results. This sentiment reflects a strategic alignment aimed at bolstering European security and reinforcing the Franco-German engine for European integration.
We are embarking on a new common path in deterrence.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.