Friedrich Merz’s Speech: Steering Germany Forward through Unity, Freedom and Responsibility

The CDU leader delivered a speech supporting the party at the beginning of the Berlin conference, emphasizing the importance of unity and a strong welfare state. Despite fears of a shift to the right, his speech did not materialize as expected. When CDU prime ministers praised Friedrich Merz’s speech, most delegates had already left the hall.

Merz’s speech lasted almost an hour and a half, presenting himself as a statesman advocating for the political center in Germany. He covered various topics typical of CDU conferences, including history, Christian values, local successes, and international crises. The conference theme was “Winning the future together,” highlighting the party’s readiness for government responsibility at the federal level.

Merz criticized the current governing coalition and reiterated CDU’s commitment to freedom and responsibility in politics. He emphasized unity between CDU and CSU and underscored the need for prosperity from maintaining Germany’s industrial position while addressing security issues like Ukraine war. Merz also criticized parties like AfD for undermining European values with Russian support.

Despite not mentioning left-wing parties directly in his speech, Merz implied a willingness to work with them under certain conditions. The party conference confirmed him in office with almost 90% of delegates’ support, signaling a positive outcome. However, the upcoming state elections in east Germany will determine CDU’s future direction and whether it continues its current path or shifts further rightward.

In conclusion, Friedrich Merz delivered a speech that emphasized unity, freedom, responsibility, prosperity through industrial position maintenance and security concerns while leaving room for negotiation with other political parties in Germany.