Olaf Lies Discusses Economic Opportunities in Defense Sector

The future Minister-President of Lower Saxony, Olaf Lies, is advocating for the state to capitalize on increased defense spending, particularly highlighting the strategic importance of ports in this context.

In a recent interview, Lies emphasized the necessity of a robust economy to address challenges in education and social policy. He articulated that his background as an electrical engineer and experience in various ministerial roles provide him with the foundation needed to lead effectively in these times.

He acknowledged the urgent need to reduce bureaucracy, stating that both Brussels and Berlin are finally addressing this issue. Lies introduced the concept of a 'precise state,' where the government carefully considers regulations and empowers citizens and businesses by delegating responsibilities.

When discussing the anticipated growth in the defense industry in Lower Saxony, particularly with firms like Rheinmetall, Lies expressed optimism about the economic potential. He noted that while there may be hesitance in labeling the state as the 'number one defense region,' he sees a significant opportunity for economic development and value creation that extends beyond the defense sector.

He mentioned that many local universities are aligning their programs to support the dual-use nature of technology, which serves both military and civilian purposes. Lies revealed that efforts are underway to build and professionalize a network to enable more companies to contribute to national security and defense.

On the topic of industrial diversification, he recognized the challenges faced by the automotive sector and stressed the importance of leveraging the skills of displaced workers to find new opportunities in different industries. He believes that with proper matching of skills, entire regions can find new paths for economic growth.

Lies also pointed out that military readiness encompasses not only weaponry but also infrastructure. He stressed the need for substantial investment in Northern Germany to enhance military logistics, particularly through ports that can serve dual purposes for civilian and military use. He cited plans for a multi-purpose terminal in Wilhelmshaven, Germany's only deep-water port, as a key project.

Furthermore, he addressed the ongoing discussions about federal funding for port maintenance, asserting that the investments would benefit the entire nation due to the reliance on maritime exports.

As the election for Minister-President approaches, Lies faces pressure from his coalition partner, the Greens, regarding major infrastructure projects. He reaffirmed that the coalition is working cohesively, though differences in priorities exist. Lies stressed that the federal transport plan, which underscores the necessity of projects like the A 20 and A 39 highways, will guide their decisions moving forward.

When asked about the ongoing debate over fiscal equity among states, particularly regarding the financial equalization system, Lies advocated for a fair distribution of costs associated with environmentally friendly energy production.

As he prepares to assume the role of Minister-President, Lies will also participate in the supervisory board of Volkswagen. He noted the consensus across political lines regarding the state's influence in the company and emphasized the importance of maintaining a stable relationship between public interests and corporate governance.

In conclusion, Lies highlighted the need for increased support for commuters, advocating for enhanced commuter allowances in light of rising costs, while also expressing optimism about the future of electric mobility. He called for the new federal government to address high electricity prices for public EV charging, underscoring this as a critical area for improvement.