'Back on Track for Germany,' Says CDU’s Friedrich Merz Following New Coalition Deal
The centre-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU), along with its partner party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), and the centre-left Social Democratic Party (SPD) have come to an agreement to establish a new government. This accord was reached 45 days following Germany’s unexpected federal election.
Party leaders stated during a press conference in Berlin that they have achieved agreements on crucial matters like reducing taxes and securing pension stability.
The CDU leader, Friedrich Merz, stated that Germany has become a stable nation following four years of uncertainty. He conveyed to U.S. President Donald Trump that Germany is once again "on course."
Lars Klingbeil, who co-chairs the SPD, along with Merz concur that stopping unlawful migration is essential. Both have pledged that Germany will enhance its competitiveness as a nation.
They stated that fast-track citizenship will be eliminated, and obtaining German citizenship would require waiting for five years instead of the three-year period previously established by the previous administration.
The welfare system will undergo reforms as well, with Merz stating that the new administration aims to transform Germany into a contemporary and digitally advanced nation.
Rental price controls will remain enforced, and Klingbeil stated that Germany supports immigration, despite both pledging to stop unlawful migration.
The sides mentioned that they had clashed over numerous major points, yet still maintained friendly relations. They even playfully noted that they used the casual "du" instead of the more polite "Sie."
Following the sharp decline in global stock markets due to US President Donald Trump’s announcement of widespread tariffs, the three entities involved have faced increasing pressure to swiftly conclude an agreement.
The following step prior to forming the government involves SPD members and an executive committee from the CDU’s partner party, the CSU, voting on the agreement. This approval process is anticipated to last around 10 days before the deal can be finalized.
Following this, Merz is anticipated to become the chancellor, potentially as early as the first week of May.
