A New Chapter in Franco-German Relations

French President Emmanuel Macron and future German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met in Paris to strengthen Franco-German relations. They discussed joint initiatives in a friendly atmosphere and the necessity of a united Europe to establish independent defense capabilities in response to a second Trump administration.

In a landmark meeting at the Elysee Palace, French President Emmanuel Macron and Germany's prospective conservative chancellor, Friedrich Merz, pledged to usher in a new era of cooperation between France and Germany. The discussions, characterized by a friendly atmosphere, focused on broad agreement and potential joint initiatives.

Macron, fresh from his talks in Washington with U.S. President Donald Trump, briefed EU leaders on these discussions. The meeting signaled a strong commitment to reinforcing the bilateral relationships crucial for European unity.

Merz's recent election victory positions him to potentially forge a coalition with Germany's Social Democrats, helmed by current Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Amid global uncertainties, he emphasized the urgency for Europe to unify and develop its defense capabilities, particularly with the prospect of a second Trump administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)