CDU state party conference: Merz admits: Germany 2040 has not been explained well enough

Young people should look to the future with more confidence again, demands Friedrich Merz. At a party conference, the Chancellor in the North also admitted what he had not yet adequately explained.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) called for rapid reforms in the country at a state party conference in Neumünster. Photo: Daniel Bockwoldt/dpa

Neumünster. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has emphasized the need for quick and sustainable reforms in Germany. “We need short-term improvements, but we also need long-term changes,” said the CDU federal chairman at a state party conference in Neumünster, Schleswig-Holstein. However, he did not give any details. However, he admitted that he had not always explained everything adequately in the context of the Germany 2040 target image.

The more than 240 delegates in Neumünster received Merz with cheers. The goal must be for young people to be able to look to the future with confidence again. The economy is under massive pressure and people are suffering from high prices, said Merz. “We need the reforms now.” Germany must remain an industrial country with good jobs. “This Germany 2040 will not come about by itself.”

Merz wants courage for the future

“We also have to ensure more justice,” said Merz. The goal is intergenerational justice. “Our goal must be that normal people in our country can afford a normal life again.” Germany is far from reaching its goal in its reform process. Reforms took time to take effect. This would then bring more calm to the coalition and the country.

But Germany doesn't just need reforms, warned Merz. “We need courage for the future.” The country is not trapped in decline and downturn.

There were protests from several groups in front of the venue. Trade unions, among others, called for this. They wanted to show the Chancellor in front of the Holstenhallen what they thought of the current plans for pensions, working time laws and social security.