Merz's first speech as German Chancellor: We will build the strongest army in Europe!

"Review of policies and new priorities, aimed at renewing the promise of prosperity for all in the face of great challenges," this was the main message of Friedrich Merz's first speech as Chancellor in the Bundestag, a week after taking office.

He also promised that the German army would become the strongest army in Europe.

"From now on, the German government will provide all the financial resources the Bundeswehr needs to become the strongest army in Europe," he stressed, saying that this is what Berlin's partners in the EU and NATO are demanding.

Merz emphasized the economy and foreign policy, promising "significant improvement" for citizens by the summer, while expressing his support for Ukraine and Israel.

At the same time, he praised the work of his predecessor, Olaf Scholz, with words of appreciation.

Referring to the ongoing recession of the German economy, the German Chancellor spoke of an "unprecedented economic crisis" affecting the country, noting that "never in the past have we experienced such a prolonged lack of economic growth."

As he emphasized, the effects are visible in employment, even in strategic sectors, such as the automotive industry, chemical production, and large machinery.

He defended the decision to lift the "debt brake" and approve "large loans," emphasizing that these will be directed towards investments in infrastructure, roads, railways, education, and research.

“The federal government is investing in the creation of a modern state and a digital administration (…) I belong to a generation that experienced sustainable growth (…) However, many young people question whether Ludwig Erhard’s promise of “prosperity for all” is still true.”

"The government must dispel these doubts and that is why we are investing," he said, stressing that increasing competitiveness is a key priority, while calling on the European Union to reduce bureaucracy.

The labor market will be a central area for the new government, the chancellor declared, highlighting the goal of promoting voluntary work after the age of 67, the exemption of overtime from taxes, and greater flexibility in calculating working hours, based on weeks rather than days.

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