The chancellor highlighted the need for the European Union to strengthen its cohesion and work for a “modern future” Olaf Solz and called for “further steps” to help Ukraine.

“Now is not the time to wax nostalgic about the good old days, when so much was – supposedly – better. Now the point is to set goals together and work to make a new “good time” possible – both in Germany and in Europe as a whole.”said Mr. Soltz during his speech today in the Federal Parliament, ahead of next week’s European Council.

Regarding the issues to be raised at the upcoming Session, the chancellor stated that he would seek strengthening the single market and competitiveness in the European Union through extensive reforms. Some changes are needed, including the completion of the capital market union and the banking union, he stressed. “Our competitiveness is a prerequisite for financial success. And our competitiveness is a condition for Europe’s future as a geopolitical player,” warned Olaf Solz, pointing out that the EU’s “modern future” includes both compliance with climate goals and the cohesion of all Europeans. At this point the MPs of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) reacted by interrupting the chancellor’s speech with their voices. “And this great upheaval will end well – both for us here and for all of Europe. It will also end badly for the AfD, because it will lose its field of action,” replied Mr Solz, to applause.

Referring to the war in Ukraine, the chancellor also said that the European Union must achieve “an even better, continuous supply” of ammunition for Ukraine, while assuring that Germany is willing to prepare for the “opening of armament programs to other states – members”. “Together with our European partners, we will continue to ensure that the Ukraine will receive weapons and equipment in order to endure and defend itself (…) Germany will continue to support Ukraine politically, economically, humanitarianly and with weapons, as long as necessary”, Mr Solz reiterated and added that the EU will continue to implement sanctions against Russia and ensure that its measures are not circumvented through third countries.