German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul pointed to the unique depth of the partnership between Germany and France and called the common alliance crucial for the future of Europe. He emphasized the importance of cooperation also in matters of defense and sovereignty.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul emphasized the importance of Franco-German relations despite occasional differences of opinion. TASR informs about it based on the report of the DPA agency.
- The German minister appreciated the importance of Franco-German relations for Europe.
- According to him, France is Germany’s most important partner in Europe.
- He emphasized the need to cooperate in defending freedom and supporting Ukraine.
- The cooperation between the two countries leads to greater European sovereignty.
“For the European Union, it is a fateful question that France and Germany repeatedly shake hands, that despite sometimes different opinions, we are always looking for something in common,” said the head of German diplomacy. “France is our closest partner and most important friend in Europe,” he emphasized, adding that they are jointly aware of their responsibility for Europe.
The two countries, through the historic Elysian Treaty and the treaty signed in Aachen, which deepens the cooperation, concluded “a permanent alliance that we do not have in such depth and in such breadth with any other country,” underlined Wadephul. On this basis, it is extremely important that both states move forward boldly, including in supporting Ukraine and thereby defending freedom. “I understand it, the entire German government understands it as one of our most important tasks,” the minister said.
Despite their differences, they agreed
The head of German diplomacy pointed out that “even if there are differences, such as in the case of the Mercosur agreement, the agreement on key issues concerning our common European future far outweighs them.”
Wadephul said that both countries are working daily for greater European sovereignty, which must be urgently manifested in all areas. It starts with access to critical raw materials or semiconductors, and it also applies to the digital realm. According to the minister, it also includes cooperation in strengthening the defense industry and the first important talks regarding nuclear deterrence.
“Our partnership is of existential importance for both countries. Therefore, open communication, honest exchange of views and critical discussion between us are key – always with the aim of strengthening Europe,” said the German Foreign Minister to the DPA agency.
