Franco-German government meeting: Macron speaks of rapprochement, Merz emphasizes the Élysée Treaty

Historic venue and the Élysée Treaty

French President Macron declared that the past months had brought "a genuine Franco-German rapprochement in the European agenda." He expressed his pleasure at being "in this time, which is marked by a strategic awakening of Europe, but which also means the consolidation of this Franco-German cooperation," with the French cabinet as a guest in Germany.

Both heads of state announced that they would work together for peace and security in Europe and for the support of Ukraine. Macron said that cooperation between the two countries must continue to be expanded and Europe's strategic awakening accelerated.

Joint agenda: Ukraine, AI, and defense

On the sidelines of the Council of Ministers, according to information from negotiating circles, the cooperation on nuclear deterrence based on the French arsenal that had already been agreed in March was also discussed. In addition, the recent tensions between Paris and Berlin, which had arisen from the broad failure of the joint FCAS fighter jet project, were addressed.

Already on the previous evening, Merz had received Macron at Bensberg Palace near Cologne to prepare for Friday's Council of Ministers. The two politicians first held a working meeting in a larger group and then a confidential dinner for two.

Program in Bensberg and Nörvenich

On Friday morning, the Franco-German Defense and Security Council had previously convened at Nörvenich Air Base. Ministers and state secretaries from ten ministries on each side took part in the consultations in Brühl.

According to observers' assessment, the meeting in Brühl is likely to be the last Council of Ministers of this term of office with Macron. The French president will not run again in the presidential election in April 2027 because he has already completed two terms in office.

Last Council of Ministers with Macron?

Merz emphasized that Franco-German cooperation remains a cornerstone of European policy. Both sides signaled further joint initiatives, for example in AI research and in hydrogen projects.

Overall, the Council of Ministers reflected an attempt to stabilize bilateral relations again after the strains of the past months and to reposition them for the upcoming domestic political decisions in both countries.