Historic Agreement Between Conservatives and Social Democrats to Revitalize Germany

Germany’s conservatives led by Friedrich Merz and the center-left SPD party have made significant progress by announcing a principle agreement to form a new government. This compromise, following the legislative elections of February 23, marks the beginning of a large-scale initiative for rearmament and investment aimed at revitalizing the European Union’s largest economy.

Friedrich Merz, the future conservative chancellor, stated that a joint document had been prepared, and detailed negotiations would begin next week to finalize the coalition. “We have a great task to accomplish in the face of European challenges,” he emphasized. Lars Klingbeil, co-chair of the SPD, referred to this initial step as a crucial advancement.

Shared Management of Migration and Economic Issues

Discussions between the two parties were not without obstacles, particularly concerning migration. However, a compromise was reached, with the SPD agreeing to the conservatives’ proposals on strengthening border controls and the deportation of undocumented migrants, in line with European partners. In return, the social democrats secured an increase in the minimum wage to 15 euros per hour.

The two parties also managed to agree on an ambitious investment program worth hundreds of billions of euros, aimed at modernizing infrastructure and strengthening Germany’s defense capabilities. These discussions have attracted significant interest across Europe, with Germany’s neighbors expecting the country to take a more active role in security and defense amid rising global tensions.