Former Development Minister Advocates for EU Alliance with North Africa

In the wake of recent coalition negotiations, Gerd Müller, the former German Minister for Development, is advocating for a strategic alliance between the European Union and North African nations. This call for collaboration aims to enhance economic ties and address pressing issues related to migration and humanitarian crises.

Müller, who served as development minister for eight years, has expressed his concerns regarding the new government's approach to development policy under the leadership of Friedrich Merz. He has noted that while there are plans to reduce bureaucracy and streamline financial allocations, the focus on strategic national interests could jeopardize humanitarian efforts.

Having transitioned to a role with the United Nations, Müller is particularly critical of proposed cuts to development aid and the discussions surrounding the potential dissolution of the development ministry. He has welcomed the decision to maintain the ministry but emphasizes the need for a more proactive stance in international cooperation.

In his view, Germany should not retreat from its responsibilities in global development, especially in light of the U.S. government's withdrawal from international partnerships. Müller asserts that this shift has created a vacuum that Germany is well-positioned to fill, thereby reinforcing its commitment to global humanitarian efforts.

He proposes the establishment of an EU-North Africa partnership to facilitate economic growth and mitigate migration pressures. Müller argues that by fostering economic opportunities in North African countries, Europe can help prevent the dangerous journeys that many migrants undertake across the Mediterranean.

Moreover, he suggests that enhancing trade relations and establishing a new ministry dedicated to international trade and development can create mutually beneficial opportunities. This new approach could enable Germany to secure resources and establish partnerships that would not only benefit its economy but also support development in partner nations.

According to Müller, countries like China, Japan, and Turkey are already capitalizing on the economic potential of North Africa. He warns that Germany risks falling behind if it does not act swiftly to engage with these markets.

Additionally, he highlights the importance of addressing resource security, particularly in light of recent announcements regarding U.S. tariffs and the withdrawal from international development cooperation. Müller argues that Germany could better position itself by investing in partnerships that ensure access to critical resources, such as rare earth elements, directly from African nations.

He also emphasizes the need for a more integrated approach to migration management. By granting North African countries access to the European single market, Müller believes that economic stability could be enhanced, allowing young people to find opportunities in their home countries rather than seeking to migrate to Europe.

His vision includes the creation of a Mediterranean Union that encompasses not only North African states but also Egypt and Lebanon, fostering economic collaboration and development throughout the region. This initiative would focus on building infrastructure and creating jobs while alleviating the factors that drive migration.