09
Apr
Apr
GERMAN CHANCELLOR-IN-WAITING FRIEDRICH MERZ UNVEILS NEW COALITION DEAL
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CapitalTimesNews / 2 weeks
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German Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz has announced a new coalition deal between the center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD). The agreement aims to stabilize Germany’s economy, enhance internal security, and reaffirm the country’s position as a reliable force within Europe. “The future government, the future coalition, will reform and invest to keep Germany stable, make it more secure and make it economically stronger again,” Merz said during a news conference. He emphasized that Europe would be able to “rely” on Germany, citing growing political tensions worldwide and economic uncertainties. *Key Provisions of the Coalition Deal* – *Citizenship Requirement*: The residency requirement for German citizenship will be lengthened from three to at least five years. – *Defense Spending*: A significant increase in defense spending to address concerns over European security and the threat from Russia. – *Voluntary Military Service*: Introduction of a Swedish-style voluntary military service scheme to boost national security. – *Immigration Policies*: Tightening of immigration policies, including faster deportations for rejected asylum seekers. The new coalition faces challenges from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which has gained momentum and recently polled at 25%, surpassing the CDU’s 24%. Merz’s government must navigate these complexities while addressing pressing issues like the ongoing war in Ukraine and global economic uncertainty. In response to the AfD’s rising popularity, co-leader Alice Weidel stated, “For the first time in the still-young history of the AfD, we are the strongest force in Germany. Thank you for your tremendous trust – the political change will come!” The coalition deal must still be ratified by the SPD membership before the new government assumes power.