Merz and Macron: Historic Council of Ministers meeting in Toulon!

Merz and Macron: Historic Council of Ministers meeting in Toulon!

On Friday, August 29, 2025, the first German-French Council of Ministers meeting since the change of government in Berlin will take place on the picturesque Côte d'Azur. Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) and President Emmanuel Macron are leading the deliberations, which deal with crucial issues of economic and security policy. The aim is to emphasize the central role of both countries within the European Union and to strengthen bilateral relations.

The meeting will take place in a historic 19th century fort in Toulon, which has both cultural and political significance. Merz's cabinet is represented by several key figures, including Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD), Economics Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU), Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU). These high-level discussions are particularly important given the current political crisis in France.

Political challenges in France

The political environment in France is tense. Prime Minister François Bayrou has announced that he will ask for a vote of confidence on September 8, which could lead to the possible fall of the government. This uncertainty not only influences national politics, but also has an impact on Franco-German relations and the related discussions during the Council of Ministers.

In this context, both Merz and Macron have emphasized that Franco-German relations are on an upward trend. In particular, the personal connection between the two leaders is considered to be better than that with Merz's predecessor Olaf Scholz.

Economic and security policy agenda

A central issue for the Council of Ministers is the dispute over the FCAS air combat system, for which no agreement could be reached before the Council of Ministers. Now Merz and Macron have formulated the goal of finding an agreement by the end of the year. Defense Minister Pistorius also plans to invite the countries involved to Berlin in October to hold further talks.

Other points of contention between Germany and France include the proposal to introduce common European debt to strengthen the defense industry, which Germany rejects, and different views on the promotion of nuclear energy, as Germany has withdrawn from nuclear energy while France wants to continue to support it.

In addition, there are challenges in the trade negotiations between the EU and the Mercosur states. In order to give new impetus to ongoing economic exchange, a joint economic declaration with around 20 strategic projects is being sought. These should act as lighthouses and further promote cooperation.

After the Council of Ministers, the Franco-German Defense and Security Council will meet to discuss current developments and challenges. Given the dynamic political landscape and the changing geopolitical environment, this meeting could play a key role in defining future Franco-German cooperation.

For more details about the meeting and the political background, visit the coverage of RP ONLINE and LKZ.