Speech by Federal Chancellor Merz at the Munich Security Conference
In a world of increasing tensions, Europe must preserve its own values, protect its freedom and build on its strengths, emphasised Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz in his speech at the Munich Security Conference (MSC). Europe, he said, is more valuable today than ever before.
“A strong network of global partnerships” is important for future international cooperation, according to Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
Photo: Federal Government/Steffen Kugler
“Together, we have crossed the threshold into an era that is once again openly characterised by power and, above all, great-power politics”, said Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz in his opening speech at the 62nd Munich Security Conference. Our “first task as Europeans” today is, he said, to recognise this reality and “make provisions for the new era”. The Chancellor emphasised that German foreign and security policy is always anchored in Europe. “We are asserting our freedom with our neighbours”, said Merz.
In the era of great powers, he said, Europe’s freedom is at risk. In order to maintain this freedom, “firmness and willpower” are needed, as are a willingness to set a new course, to change and to make sacrifices. To this end, he said, Europe needs a “programme of freedom”. According to Merz, this includes the further strengthening of Europe in particular – as a sovereign and strong Europe in NATO. In addition, the transatlantic relationship needs to be revitalised and a strong network with global partners should be established.
The most important points from the speech in brief:
New world disorder: “The international order, which was based on rights and rules”, said Federal Chancellor Merz, “no longer exists”. With the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, if not before, “a new phase of open wars and conflicts has begun”. The struggle for spheres of influence, dependencies and allegiance sometimes pushes democratically constituted states to the very limits of their ability to act, Merz said.
Transatlantic relations: According to the Chancellor, a rift has opened up with the USA, and the United States’ claim to leadership is being challenged. On some issues, he said, Europe and the administration in Washington would come to different conclusions. But despite all the difficulties in the partnership, it still has potential, according to Merz. NATO, he said, is the shared competitive advantage – for Europe and for the USA.
Europe’s new role: The Chancellor also emphasised that Europe must preserve its interests and values and focus on its own strengths. Europe’s freedom, he said, is predominant and is made possible by security and economic strength. With a programme of freedom, said Merz, Europe should be stronger and more sovereign in the future.
Read the transcript of the speech here: