In a significant political shift, Germany's center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU) have reached an agreement with the center-left Social Democrats (SPD) to begin formal coalition negotiations. This development comes after a week of intensive exploratory talks following the federal elections held on February 23.
Conservative bloc leader Friedrich Merz announced the breakthrough in Berlin, signaling the start of discussions aimed at forming the next government. Merz is widely expected to become Germany's next chancellor, with plans to rejuvenate Europe's largest economy and strengthen its military capabilities amid evolving global dynamics.
The newly formed coalition has agreed on several key issues, including migration policy, where they propose the rejection of asylum seekers at land borders and enhanced border controls. Additionally, the parties aim to reform the social benefits system for the unemployed and implement measures to reduce energy costs, a move geared towards boosting the national economy.
Earlier this week, the CDU/CSU and SPD unveiled a massive €500 billion infrastructure investment package. This plan includes provisions to exempt defense spending from Germany's constitutional debt brake, allowing for increased investment in the country's armed forces.
As negotiations progress, all eyes are on Merz and Chancellor Olaf Scholz to see how the coalition will shape Germany's future policies and its role on the global stage.
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Germany's CDU/CSU, SPD agree to begin coalition negotiations
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