Merz makes diplomatic debut in Paris, Warsaw, and Kyiv
The German chancellor candidate Friedrich Merz plans to visit Paris, Warsaw, and Kyiv immediately after taking office on 7th May. This is part of his strategy to strengthen relations with key partners.
What you need to know?
- Friedrich Merz plans to visit Paris the day after taking office as Germany's chancellor, which means 7th May, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
- His travel itinerary also includes Warsaw and Kyiv, highlighting the importance of relationships with Poland and Ukraine.
- The visit to Kyiv could take place on 9th May at the invitation of President Volodymyr Zelensky, as confirmed by EU diplomats.
Why is Paris the first destination?
Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor candidate, plans his first foreign visit to Paris on 7th May, the day after taking office. According to "Politico," this choice is no accident. Merz wants to participate in the 80th-anniversary celebrations of the end of World War II, which will take place on 8th May with the participation of French President Emmanuel Macron. This event holds symbolic significance for French-German relations.
What are the plans for the visits to Warsaw and Kyiv?
Merz announced that after Paris, he will quickly proceed to Warsaw. In an interview with "Bild," he emphasized that Poland is a key partner for Germany. Following that, he plans to visit Kyiv, which may occur on 9th May. The visit to the Ukrainian capital is a response to President Volodymyr Zelensky's invitation, extended to EU leaders. Two EU diplomats confirmed that discussions about this visit are ongoing.
