German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that during the formation of a new world order, Europe must learn to speak the language of power and become a true political and geopolitical force capable of defending its own interests. He said this while speaking in the Bundestag.
Friedrich Merz. Photo: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi
According to Friedrich Merz, the modern world is rapidly changing, and a system dominated by major powers is becoming increasingly clear. In such a world, the Chancellor stressed, harsh rules prevail, and Europe will feel their impact for a long time to come.
At the same time, he noted that these changes also open up new opportunities, especially for Europe. It can offer other countries partnerships based on mutual respect, trust, and reliability.
In a world that is being restructured, there are many democratic and developing countries with open markets that need what Europe can offer.
Merz emphasized that for decades Europe has championed the rule of law as the foundation of international relations, and his government intends to uphold and defend this principle. He called the European model an alternative to imperialism and autocracy, capable of offering the world both economic and ideological values. According to him, Europe and parliamentary democracies are something unique and important.
The Chancellor noted that recently, Europeans have for the first time experienced firsthand that they can be a strong force, relying on values they are not willing to abandon.
However, to harness this new sense of self-importance, Europe must learn to act as a power and conduct politics from a position of strength.
"Let's do something with this new awakening of European self-awareness! But we will only be able to use this appeal and this self-awareness if we ourselves learn to speak the language of power politics, if we ourselves become a European power," emphasized the head of the German government.
For this, according to Merz, three key conditions are necessary:
- take responsibility for their own security, reduce dependence on others, invest in defense, and support Ukraine;
- restore economic competitiveness;
- preserve unity within Europe.
He also warned that any attempts to pressure Europe through trade tariffs would be met with a response. According to the German Chancellor, Europe is ready and capable of retaliating if necessary.
At the same time, Friedrich Merz reaffirmed his commitment to NATO, which Europe wants to strengthen from within, and emphasized that
European democracies are partners and allies of the USA, not their subordinates. He noted that Europe will continue to be open to cooperation with the United States on equal and partnership terms.
Comments