German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron convened during a routine series of joint cabinet sessions, aiming to move past the tensions stemming from the earlier collapse of a highly anticipated joint fighter jet initiative.
“We are taking essential steps to protect our freedom, security, and collective defense,” Merz stated at a joint press conference where they outlined several goals, including missile defense and long-range strike capabilities.
Both leaders criticized China for failing to adhere to international trade norms, noting that its industry receives at least eight times the level of state support compared to other nations within the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
“We are not anti-Chinese in our diplomatic or economic dealings, but we maintain a realistic perspective,” Macron remarked, highlighting that Europe faces a daily trade deficit with China of 1 billion euros ($1.14 billion).
COOPERATION ON NUCLEAR DETERRENCE
The two leaders have already proposed that France collaborate with Germany on nuclear deterrence, especially given the increasing indications from Washington that the United States may reduce its defense commitments in Europe.
“We’re adopting a measured approach here, which might eventually lead to a new doctrine, but it is premature to make that claim today,” Merz noted, emphasizing that any collaboration would complement current arrangements within the NATO framework.
Macron clarified that France will maintain full financial responsibility for its nuclear deterrent.
“Funding for the French nuclear program will consistently come from France,” he stated when asked if Germany would consider contributing to finance the program.
Despite abandoning the plans for a joint fighter aircraft, development of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) will persist, with ongoing progress on the cloud-based information systems central to the initiative.
“The remaining projects, including those associated with the cloud and other aspects, continue to advance among our manufacturers,” Macron added.
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