Germany's New Chancellor Merz Calls for 'Restart' in Relations with France and Poland
Germany’s newly inaugurated Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, signaled his intention to reset diplomatic ties with France and Poland during his first official trip abroad. Speaking to reporters en route to Paris to meet French President Emmanuel Macron, Merz emphasized that the visit was not about concrete policy decisions but about sending a clear message—both domestically and internationally—of his commitment to strengthening cooperation with Germany’s closest neighbors.
“This trip is about initiating a bit of a restart,” said the conservative leader, adding that relations with France in particular had suffered in recent years due to perceptions that Berlin was neglecting its partnership with Paris.
Calling France and Poland "two countries very close to my heart," Merz highlighted the strategic importance of revitalizing Germany’s relationships with both neighbors.
He also expressed a desire to deepen ties with the United Kingdom, noting that under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour government, Britain is gradually moving closer to the European Union after its departure in 2020.