"Breaking with the past"; Germans want to unite Europe – "we must take matters into our own hands"

Speaking at the Frankfurt Stock Exchange’s New Year reception in Eschborn, Merz warned that it is essential for Europe to take control in order to play a significant role during this phase of global transformation, Anadolu reports.

“Currently, we are experiencing probably the greatest period of political uncertainty and instability, and certainly a profound turning point. This is a break with the past,” Merz said.

He added that we live in a world “where great powers are reemerging, not primarily to respect rules, but rather to apply power politics.”

Merz believes that his country could play a central role in helping Europe become more united, and thereby more independent.

“If we as Europeans act in a unified and decisive way, we can influence changes in the world. We can achieve more than we sometimes think we are capable of,” he emphasized.

The German opposition leader said he sees a path toward a “sovereign, free, peaceful, and economically prosperous Europe.” He stressed that Europe must be able to defend itself, make business conditions for the European economy competitive again, and become technologically more independent.

“Transatlantic relations have changed. But nostalgia or memories of old times do not help us. We must take matters into our own hands now if we want to play a role in this phase of global transformation,” Merz concluded.