Merz, Macron Chair First Franco-German Council Since 2000 Amid EU, Ukraine Focus

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have co-chaired the first Franco-German Ministerial Council since the German government change, aiming to strengthen cooperation on economic and security policy. Meeting at Toulon, the council brought together ten ministers from each country to align on key European initiatives, with both leaders emphasizing the centrality of their partnership to Europe's future and geopolitical strength. Macron and Merz opened a new chapter in bilateral relations, with Macron highlighting the partnership's role in asserting Europe's position in the Ukraine conflict and advocating for European rearmament. Merz stressed the need for a unified approach on Ukraine, reducing EU bureaucracy, and enhancing economic cooperation. The renewed Franco-German alliance marks a significant improvement compared to previous relations under Germany's former chancellor Olaf Scholz, though policy differences remain on issues like nuclear energy and trade agreements. Their cooperation is seen as pivotal for fostering a stronger and more influential Europe amid global challenges.