Meeting the media, Merz seeks stability at home and clarity abroad

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz used a "meet the media" session in Berlin to project stability at home while staking out clear positions on global flashpoints and Germany's economic future. 

With his eyes set on a post-summer visit to China, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader also signaled Germany's pivot to building stronger ties in Asia.

"Germany stands on a stable foundation, on a stable majority in the parliament," Merz said, brushing aside recent coalition disputes over judicial appointments that had threatened to derail parts of the legislative agenda. He acknowledged "occasional setbacks," but stressed continuity ahead of the 2025 budget process.

On the home front, migration policy dominated the agenda. Merz offered a rare public reflection on former Chancellor Angela Merkel's 2015 pledge that "we can do this" regarding refugee integration. 

"We clearly did not succeed in the area she was referring to … it's not over yet," he said, suggesting his party would advocate stricter controls.

On the economy, Merz was unequivocal in his opposition to EU-level corporate taxation, saying Germany cannot accept new taxes on its companies: "As far as Germany is concerned, I can exclude Germany pursuing such an approach." 

He also warned of the potential impact of U.S. tariffs on German exports, calling for urgent engagement to avoid a 30 percent duty on German cars.

Asia and Middle East 

China was among the few countries Merz mentioned in forward-looking terms. While no date was confirmed during the press event, Merz is expected to travel to China later this year – likely in October – accompanied by a business delegation focused on enhancing bilateral ties and economic cooperation. 

It is understood this visit to China will be part of a broader Asian tour, which will also take in India, Indonesia, and Japan.

On Ukraine, Merz detailed efforts to deliver long-range weapons and tighten sanctions on Russia, revealing that CDU negotiators had to personally lobby EU leaders to secure the latest package. 

The chancellor described the process as tricky, citing internal divisions within the EU. He revealed that he had to make calls "almost every day" with Slovak Prime Minister to get him on board with the latest round of sanctions.

When asked about the Middle East, Merz told the media that Germany will continue to be a supporter of Israel, but he was keen to stress that Berlin is critical of Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank: "I have never adopted the term 'unconditional support'." 

Following the press conference, Merz held a phone call with the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu – after which a spokesperson updated the media. 

"The chancellor emphasised that the urgently needed humanitarian aid must now reach the people in the Gaza Strip in a safe and humane manner," the spokesperson said. "The chancellor emphasised that there must be no steps towards annexation of the West Bank."