Merz & Macron Kickstart Franco-German Cooperation in Toulon
Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to chair a crucial Franco-German Ministerial Council in Toulon this Friday. This is the first such meeting since Merz took office, bringing together ten ministers from each side to discuss economic and security policy. The leaders view their partnership as key to Europe's future.
The meeting in Toulon will focus on economic cooperation and strengthening bilateral relations between Germany and France, the two strongest economies in the EU. It is the first since the change in Germany's leadership, highlighting the importance of the Franco-German partnership.
Meanwhile, German defense and foreign affairs ministers are in Copenhagen, joining their EU counterparts to discuss military aid for Ukraine and the situation in Gaza. This comes as the average retirement age in Germany rose to 64.7 years in 2024, reflecting an aging population and changes in retirement policies.
The Franco-German Ministerial Council in Toulon and the EU meetings in Copenhagen underscore the importance of international cooperation in addressing both economic and security challenges. These high-level gatherings are a testament to the commitment of European leaders to work together for a stronger and more secure continent.
