In their coalition negotiations, the CDU/CSU and SPD are calling for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own defense. "For the first time since the end of the Second World War, Germany and Europe must be in a position to significantly guarantee security in Europe themselves," states the draft of the working group on defense and foreign policy. However, the alliance with the USA remains "of paramount importance" – even if the changes on the American side are taken seriously.
The CDU/CSU and SPD working groups sent their draft texts for a coalition agreement to the steering group on Monday. They will now be consolidated there, and the politically contentious issues will then have to be negotiated by the party leaders.
For example, the CDU/CSU's demand to expand the Federal Security Council into a National Security Council within the Federal Chancellery is still controversial. There is also disagreement over compulsory military service: While the Social Democrats are backing a voluntary year of service despite the growing threat situation, the CDU and CSU are in favor of reactivating compulsory military service.
However, both sides agree to close the gaps in the Bundeswehr's equipment. "We will create all the conditions necessary for the Bundeswehr to be able to fully perform its task of national and alliance defense," the draft states. In order to be able to pay for this, the debt brake in the Basic Law was recently adjusted. In this way, Germany wants to serve as a "leaning power" for its partners in Europe.
Relations with the UK are also to be consolidated in a comprehensive bilateral friendship agreement. Turkey is described as an "important strategic partner within NATO, a neighbor of the EU and an influential player in the Middle East." However, improving the democratic situation and the rule of law is "a central element for us." Till Hoppe
