Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz has promised French President Emmanuel Macron a close partnership.
July 17, 2026, 4:10 p.mJuly 17, 2026, 4:10 p.m
Friendship with France and the common commitment to a united Europe are the core of German foreign policy, he said at the end of the German-French government meeting in Brühl. «We count on you and you can count on us. You can rely on us,” said Merz.
Merz and Macron are friendly.Image: keystone
The fact that Germany and France are close together in these challenging times is invaluable for both countries. Merz emphasized that joint support for Ukraine plays a key role in security. This will be continued resolutely. “Our goal is a peace that preserves the sovereignty of Ukraine and the security of Europe.”
Merz pointed to the new cooperation between Germany and France on nuclear defense. “We are taking a new, common path in deterrence.”
The Chancellor thanked the French President “for the trust and also the enthusiasm that this Council has shaped and that you have shaped in this Franco-German Council of Ministers”. Because of next year’s French elections, it was likely the last meeting of this kind with Macron. Merz emphasized that the German hand will always remain outstretched for deeper and trusting cooperation with France – regardless of the voters’ decision. (hkl/sda/dpa)