Friedrich Merz has been elected as Germany’s 10th chancellor, prompting a wave of international reactions and congratulations as he prepares to navigate significant challenges at home and abroad.
Conservative leader Friedrich Merz became Germany’s chancellor after securing parliamentary approval in a second round of voting. His election followed a coalition agreement between his Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) and the Social Democrats. Known for his pragmatic approach and emphasis on immigration reform, Merz has pledged to address Germany’s economic and political challenges while strengthening international cooperation.
World leaders welcomed his election, with French President Emmanuel Macron emphasizing the importance of Franco-German collaboration for European sovereignty and security. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted cooperation on economic growth and migration issues. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed confidence in Germany’s leadership under Merz to enhance European defense, while US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce reiterated the US commitment to transatlantic cooperation.
Merz also made headlines with his call for the US to respect Germany’s domestic politics, underscoring his belief in national sovereignty and constructive international dialogue. In a statement, he encouraged the US to avoid partisan involvement in German affairs, signaling his intent to assert a balanced approach in global diplomacy.
Among the congratulatory messages, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Merz about strengthening bilateral ties and plans for a potential Berlin visit, reflecting Germany’s ongoing commitment to its partnership with Israel.
As Merz assumes leadership, he faces high expectations domestically and internationally, with leaders anticipating his contributions to addressing shared global challenges and fostering stronger alliances.
Germany’s foreign minister called on Iran’s leadership to urgently provide credible assurances it is not pursuing nuclear weapons and to return to negotiations, amid growing fears of military escalation with Israel.
Berlin is preparing a new bill to accelerate arms purchases and prioritize domestic weapons production, aiming to respond swiftly to growing security threats triggered by the Russia-Ukraine war.
Germany’s Defense Ministry rejected claims on Monday that a German military tanker aircraft refueled Israeli jets involved in recent airstrikes on Iran, calling the reports unfounded.
Germany intensified its diplomatic efforts on Sunday as Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul warned of a looming regional catastrophe in the Middle East, calling for immediate de-escalation and humanitarian access amid growing fears of a broader war.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul continued his urgent Middle East tour with stops in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, as Berlin seeks to help de-escalate the growing conflict between Iran and Israel.
President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that unity between the government and the people is essential for overcoming national crises, urging swift action from officials and deeper cooperation with neighboring countries.
Azerbaijan took part in the fourth meeting of heads of ministries and agencies responsible for ICT development among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states, held in Karamay, China.
President Ilham Aliyev and Bulgarian National Assembly President Natalia Kiselova reaffirmed the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria during a meeting in Baku on June 18, highlighting strong political and energy ties.
Germany’s foreign minister called on Iran’s leadership to urgently provide credible assurances it is not pursuing nuclear weapons and to return to negotiations, amid growing fears of military escalation with Israel.
Berlin is preparing a new bill to accelerate arms purchases and prioritize domestic weapons production, aiming to respond swiftly to growing security threats triggered by the Russia-Ukraine war.
Peace is no longer a dream. It is a discussion. On the streets of Baku and Yerevan, it is also a question, of trust, of foreign interests, and of who truly wants it.
Israeli strikes have reportedly targeted areas near the residences of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, according to the New York Times, citing local witnesses.
Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) has cancelled certain flights scheduled for 13th and 14th June amid recent escalation of situation in the Middle East and the closure of airspace in several countries for security reasons.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for June 17th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
The Israeli military has issued an evacuation advisory for Iranian civilians living near weapons production sites and associated infrastructure within Iran. The message was shared on the social media platform X in both Arabic and Farsi by an official military spokesperson.
A new rail agreement between Pasifik Eurasia and a China Railway subsidiary is set to strengthen the Middle Corridor trade route, offering a faster and cheaper alternative to shipments via Russia.
U.S. President Donald Trump will extend the deadline for TikTok's U.S. divestment for a third time, giving 90 more days to finalize a sale, the White House confirmed.
South Korea, the US, and Japan held their first joint air drills since President Lee Jae Myung took office, signalling security cooperation even as Seoul seeks renewed dialogue with North Korea.
The French city of Lyon has introduced new restrictions on car traffic in its historic centre as part of a broader plan to reduce air pollution and prioritize sustainable urban living.
Azerbaijan took part in the fourth meeting of heads of ministries and agencies responsible for ICT development among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states, held in Karamay, China.
President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that unity between the government and the people is essential for overcoming national crises, urging swift action from officials and deeper cooperation with neighboring countries.
Azerbaijan took part in the fourth meeting of heads of ministries and agencies responsible for ICT development among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states, held in Karamay, China.
President Ilham Aliyev and Bulgarian National Assembly President Natalia Kiselova reaffirmed the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria during a meeting in Baku on June 18, highlighting strong political and energy ties.
Germany’s foreign minister called on Iran’s leadership to urgently provide credible assurances it is not pursuing nuclear weapons and to return to negotiations, amid growing fears of military escalation with Israel.
Berlin is preparing a new bill to accelerate arms purchases and prioritize domestic weapons production, aiming to respond swiftly to growing security threats triggered by the Russia-Ukraine war.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment