Federal Minister of Economics Robert Habeck at the HNA readers' meeting

Federal Minister of Economics Robert Habeck at the HNA readers' meeting

Federal Minister of Economics and Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck (Greens) took part in the HNA readers' meeting in the south wing of the Kulturbahnhof on Monday evening. The event, moderated by HNA editor-in-chief Axel Grysczyk, attracted a total of 220 visitors, including business representatives such as the newly elected President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Désirée Derin-Holzapfel.

The discussion with Habeck covered a variety of topics such as pensions, nuclear power plants, digitalization and the shortage of skilled workers. For example, a reader asked what she should do if her old boiler broke and whether she could still heat with oil. Habeck explained that municipalities must first submit heat planning before the use of fossil fuels is restricted.

Another focus was economic development and bureaucracy, which was of concern to many visitors. Habeck emphasized the challenges of dealing with expensive energy, rising production costs and inflation. Although he limited the federal government's scope for action, he expressed optimism that things were slowly improving.

Regarding bureaucracy, Habeck pointed out the need to revise unnecessary laws and increase efficiency. He made an amusing reference to a fictitious “good menu law”. Despite his well-known headline-worthiness that evening, Habeck rejected a provocative headline and emphasized the importance of flexibility in politics.

The evening ended with words of praise for Habeck, who was praised for being detailed and patient in his explanations. Humorous moments such as the “good menu law” also made the audience smile. Habeck included the Kassel region in the discussion and was full of praise for the green real politics there. In the end, the minister was satisfied and emphasized the importance of dialogue and understanding in politics.