Chancellor Merz's First Foreign Visits to Paris and Warsaw

Following his recent election, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) is set to embark on his inaugural foreign trip today, visiting neighboring countries France and Poland. This journey, typical for newly elected German chancellors, carries additional significance as it emphasizes Merz's intent to strengthen Germany's relationships within Europe.

In Paris, Merz plans to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss strategies for enhancing European autonomy in light of shifting U.S. foreign policies. The talks will primarily focus on strengthening European self-sufficiency and addressing the geopolitical landscape.

Subsequently, Merz will travel to Warsaw, where he is expected to engage with Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Key topics will include the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine and issues surrounding irregular migration. Merz aims to implement stricter border controls and increased deportations, a move that has already been met with skepticism from Polish officials.

Merz, who was elected chancellor on the second ballot, expressed his commitment to fostering stronger ties with both France and Poland during his campaign. His predecessor, Olaf Scholz, faced criticism from Merz for neglecting these crucial relationships.

In a bid to redefine Germany's role in Europe, Merz has articulated a vision to end what he describes as the nation's 'European political silence.' He considers the restoration of relations with France and Poland as paramount. Merz envisions collaborating with Macron to realize the concept of a sovereign Europe, which includes discussions around a shared European nuclear deterrent.

Macron has already extended his congratulations to Merz, emphasizing the importance of revitalizing the Franco-German partnership. The Elysée Palace views Merz's visit as an opportunity to signal a renewed commitment to cooperation in addressing issues of sovereignty, competitiveness, and security.

While a visit to Paris is customary for new chancellors, Merz's simultaneous stop in Poland marks a notable departure from tradition. His predecessor, Scholz, initially visited Paris and Brussels.

Merz has pledged to immediately address the 'silence' in relations with Warsaw, committing to engage with Poland respectfully and empathetically. Discussions will also likely touch upon Germany's wartime reparations, a sensitive topic that continues to resonate in Polish-German relations.

Additionally, Merz's visit coincides with a critical period in the Polish presidential election campaign, where candidates from the ruling nationalist party are using migration and compensation issues to fuel anti-German sentiment.

Merz intends to establish a friendship treaty to lay a new foundation for German-Polish relations, which he aims to finalize by June 17, 2026, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of the German-Polish neighborhood treaty.

Accompanying Merz on his trip will be Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU), highlighting a unified approach to foreign policy that has been inconsistent in previous administrations. For the first time in nearly six decades, both the Chancellor and Foreign Minister belong to the same political party, breaking a long-standing tradition of coalition governance.