Feature
Germany is viewed with extreme skepticism in Italy: Angela Merkel is popular, but it is uncertain what German politics will look like after her. That makes many in the EU's third strongest economy doubt Germany. And yet, the change in Germany also presents an opportunity for Italy and its Prime Minister Mario Draghi, analyzes the head of ECFR's Rome office, Arturo Varvelli, in his article.
By Redaktion Table
Angela Merkel's personal closeness to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has left its mark on the German neighbor's EU policy. Even before the federal election, it is clear that Rutte is now searching for his own way.
By Redaktion Table
Annalena Baerbock does not think it is a good idea for Germany to go it alone in China policy – because in her view, this weakens Europe's position. In this interview, she explains her positions on economic decoupling and where cooperation with the People's Republic should take place. The Green Party's top candidate answered the questions in writing. For more interviews with top representatives of German politics ahead of the 2021 federal election, click here.
By Amelie Richter
German European policy suffers from lengthy coordination processes. The possible governing parties want to change that after the Bundestag elections. The CDU wants to make the Chancellor's Office the control center – but there is resistance.
By Till Hoppe
Prague is looking forward wistfully to the departure of the German chancellor, who has personal ties to the neighboring country. Above all, the Czechs will miss Merkel's influence in Brussels. Her successor should therefore be as similar as possible to Angela Merkel.
By Redaktion Table
China has an increasingly worse stance in German politics. Back in the 1970s, however, there was a competition to see which politician and campaigner would be received by Mao – and how long the talks would last. Back then, going to China was considered a sign of foreign policy relevance. A time that now seems like a distant memory – especially since it has been the source of many curious anecdotes, the likes of which would be unthinkable today.
By Table.Briefings
Three candidates for the office of CDU chairman and their stance on China policy: Armin Laschet stands for continuity and "change through trade," Friedrich Merz focuses on a consistent China strategy for Europe, and Norbert Roettgen is expected to be clearly critical of the leadership in Beijing.
By Redaktion Table