Merz did not want to specifically evaluate current proposals to increase the NATO target for defense expenditure to 3.5 percent of GDP and then also to provide expenditure for militarily usable infrastructure of 1.5 percent. However, he emphasized that more money alone is not the right answer to the current challenges, and also called for discussions about more efficiency in the procurement of weapons systems. In addition, Merz pointed out that a GDP quota, which is one percentage point for Germany, currently means around 45 billion euros more in defense spending. At the moment, the Federal Republic of two percent is almost 100 billion euros.
In a press conference with Von der Leyen, Merz demanded reduction in bureaucracy and the abolition of the European supply chain directive. “We will abolish the national law in Germany. I also expect the European Union to understand this step and really abolish this directive,” said the CDU politician. The black and red coalition agreement actually states that the German supply chain law should be replaced by a law on international corporate responsibility “that the European supply chain guideline (CSDDD) implemented low in bureaucracy and with an enforcement-friendly manner”.
Before the upcoming negotiations on the next long-term EU budget, Merz emphasized in Brussels that common European debts had to remain the exception. He ruled out a permanent joint admission, for example, to build the defense industry. At the same time, he admitted that this should be a difficult discussion. In view of the threats from Russia, several states such as France are open to the inclusion of new joint debts. Germany, the Netherlands and Austria in particular, have so far rejected this.
And what are the expectations of Merz? EU Council President Costa said that he rely on Merz Germany at the center of the European decision-making process. A new head always means new ideas and new impulses. Costa confidently commented that Merz will “bring energy and will to the European Union.
