Berlin is sometimes called the second unofficial capital of the European Union. Germany is the largest country in society in terms of population, and it is an economic leader. Their influence on the fate of the entire Federation is enormous.
They also owe their position to Angela Merkel, says Dr. Agnieszka Shada Konievac, professor of political science, and deputy director of the German Institute for Polish Affairs in Darmstadt.
Merkel has a lot of political patience and at the same time she is not one who wants to show her strength. He manages his policy in a balanced and pragmatic manner. She adds that this served Germany and Europe more than once.
France Press agency
The main goal of Germany under the leadership of the current chancellor was to preserve the unity of Europe in the face of many crises such as: Brexit, increased competition between global powers, climate change, disagreements over the future and shape of society, and its members’ approach to core values, such as the rule of law .
Angela Merkel has tried to avoid the image of Germany as a hegemonic country that deals unilaterally, ignoring the interests of other countries. It has been successful, sometimes to a lesser extent – says Lydia Gibadu, an analyst in Germany, Weimar Triangle from PISM.
He added that moving forward on the most important issues is usually done in agreement with France, or as part of larger alliances within the European Union.
Germany is interested in a strong, united Europe with a prosperous economy. Because a strong union is a strong Germany – emphasizes Dr. Agnieszka Shada Konevay.
However, there are clear lines in this picture of Germany striving for a united and united Europe. It arises when certain national interests are at stake.
This was the case with Nord Stream 2, the construction of which was opposed by some members of the European Union, including Poland. Although states argued that the project was against energy security, construction was completed.
The conclusion of the investment agreement with China, which was postponed during the presidency, also raised many controversies. The agreement will make it easier for EU companies, including German companies, of course, to invest in Chinese markets, which from the perspective of the PRC was not a big concession, but on the contrary: it will help develop China’s technological self-sufficiency. . Adding to the negative context of this situation is the fact that the agreement was concluded after Europe had to deal with alarming supply interruptions from China due to the epidemic and the disinformation policy of local authorities, as well as tensions in China’s relations with China. Individual EU members, such as Sweden or the Czech Republic – resides by Lydia Gepadao.
Merkel’s time is running out. A new one is coming. Commentators point out that it will take some time for the new chancellor to build up his position on the EU stage. This means, at least in the near future, that the role of President Emmanuel Macron, who will rotate in the presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2022, will increase significantly.
The center of gravity will certainly shift towards France. Moreover, at crucial moments, Berlin is always looking for an agreement with Paris. This was the case with Ukraine, the financial crisis or the reconstruction fund, says PiSM expert, Lydia Gipado.
The question remains, however, whether the new German government will in the long run support the French idea of union. Everything will depend on what coalition will be formed after the elections and the new chancellor – he adds.
Based on opinion polls, there are two favorites to take the position: former Finance Minister, Vice-Chancellor and Chairman of the German Social Democratic Party (SPD) Olaf Scholz, and Armin Laschet, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). / CSU), described by the media as Angela Merkel’s favorite.
As Bernd Riegert wrote in Deutsche Welle, both candidates are on their way to Paris.
With Olaf Schulz, it might be a little easier to spend the money. After all, Schulz is the actual inventor of the debt-based reconstruction fund. Schulz also shares Macron’s view of the necessary European ‘sovereignty’ in terms of defense, industrial policy and climate protection.
-Armen Laschet hails from the city of Aachen on the western border of Germany since 2017, and has been the Prime Minister of North Rhine-Westphalia since 2017. He is a politician with a strong focus on France – explains Dr. Agnieszka Shada Konovay.
The experts we spoke with agree that no matter who eventually becomes chancellor, Germany will maintain its unquestionable position in the EU. We should not expect a major shift from the current policy.
– Both candidates for a strong Europe without divisions – says Dr. Shada Konovay.
“There is practical calm among German officials in the European Union. Work is proceeding normally, regardless of who wins the September 26 elections. Big decisions will be postponed until new people arrive at work,” Deutsche Welle wrote.
Only the Europeans will miss Merkel, at least at first. According to a survey conducted by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), the proportion is as high as 41 percent. of the respondents would like to continue to see her as the leader of the European Union. Emmanuel Macron in this study received only 14 percent. voices.
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