German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Paris on Wednesday, marking his first foreign trip. He met with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace. The leaders pledged increased cooperation on defense policy.
During the meeting, Chancellor Merz announced plans to strengthen European security and defense capabilities. This includes reinforcing the Franco-German Defense Council and deepening bilateral cooperation on armament. Merz emphasized the need for all EU member states to increase defense spending.
Macron announced the creation of a Franco-German Defense and Security Council. This council will meet regularly to address shared strategic challenges. Merz also plans to visit Ukraine in the coming weeks to support a ceasefire and peace agreement with Russia.