PARIS — Friedrich Merz, Germany’s incoming Chancellor, is scheduled to visit Paris on May 7, just a day after taking office, as confirmed by multiple officials familiar with the arrangements.
In an interview with the German newspaper Bild, Merz emphasized his intention to engage in discussions “immediately” with French President Emmanuel Macron and Poland’s Donald Tusk. The announcement follows the conclusion of coalition talks between Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Social Democratic Party.
“I will … immediately travel to Paris and very quickly travel to Warsaw,” he stated.
Sources indicate that the timing of Merz’s visit is strategic, as he and Macron will be focused on national commemorations for the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II on May 8. This significant historical event will likely shape their discussions.
French officials are optimistic about establishing a renewed relationship with Germany under Merz’s leadership. The rapport between Macron and outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz had been notably strained, exacerbated by differing views on issues such as energy policy, the Ukraine crisis, and trade relations.
A close ally of Macron revealed that both leaders are already “working hard” together, indicating that they may achieve advancements in areas such as defense, trade, and the management of Europe’s transatlantic relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump in the upcoming weeks.
Potential European tour extending to Kyiv
In addition to his meetings in Paris and Warsaw, Merz’s itinerary may also include a potential visit to Kyiv on May 9. This follows an invitation extended to European Union leaders by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Two EU diplomats, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, mentioned that preliminary discussions are ongoing regarding Merz’s visit to Ukraine.
The French presidency has opted not to comment on this story at this time.