Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a Friday press conference assured that the national government remained unchangeable despite interior disputes in the coalition. The main subject was the blockade on the election of fresh Constitutional Court judges. Merz had previously promised Germany crucial changes this summer. The president of the CDU took office as Chancellor on May 6 after the election victory.
The president of the Christian-Democratic Union answered the questions of journalists during a conventional "summer press conference". This is an yearly event where the achievements of the national government and the challenges facing it are discussed.
After taking office as Chancellor Merz made concrete promises to Germany. "I want you to feel that something is changing for the better this summer," he said after the election victory.
Dispute over Constitutional Court Judges
The conference dominated the issue of non-agreement in the government coalition on the election of fresh Constitutional Court judges. The Bundestag had already erstwhile in July not approved them in the vote.
A fresh effort may not be made until September, at the first parliamentary gathering after the vacation break. Despite intra-coaltic disputes, Merz assured that the government was unchangeable and "no crisis".
Government acts in a spirit of partnership
"We approach everything in good faith, in the spirit of partnership" - emphasised the Chancellor. However, he admitted that there were frictions and the situation "could be better".
When discussing economical matters, the Chancellor spoke of improved sentiments and the request to increase the competitiveness of the country. He besides pointed out the request to make infrastructure.
Bundeswehra is to be the strongest in Europe
The mark of affirmative change is to invest in defence. "Bundeswehr is to become the strongest conventional army in Europe" - reiterated Merz his earlier commitment.
On abroad policy issues, journalists asked respective questions about Berlin's policy towards Israel. "The events in the Gaza Strip are unacceptable to us," said Merz.
Call for humanitarian aid
The Chancellor besides called for humanitarian aid to be provided to the Palestinians. At the same time, he does not consider Israel to be compared to Russia.
The second of these countries is at war against "a state that does not pose a threat to him" - he argued. Merz besides commented on the customs dispute between the US and the EU.
Germany is afraid about customs increases
Germany is most keen to avoid increases in tariffs on the chemical, pharmaceutical and automotive industries. "The lower the duties, the better for both parties" - stressed Merz.
He warned that higher fares would "beat in all". In the context of the 18th package of sanctions adopted by the EU on Friday against Russia, the Chancellor complained about "too burdensome procedures" in Brussels.
He expressed his gratitude to Slovakia for yet agreeing to endure its blockade. He stressed that in fresh days he had discussed this with Prime Minister Robert Fica almost all day.
(PAP) Note: This article was edited with Artificial Intelligence.
