and will co-chair a Franco-German ministerial council on Friday in Toulon, with economic and security policy at the center of talks.
The gathering, the first since Germany’s government change earlier this year, will bring together 10 ministers from each country. Ahead of it, Merz and Macron met Thursday evening at the French leader’s summer residence, Fort de Bregancon.
After sometimes difficult relations with former Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Macron said the renewed partnership could drive Europe forward.
“I believe that the Franco-German tandem is now perfectly coordinated to create a stronger Europe in the areas of economy, trade and currency,” he said.
Merz stressed the importance of the two countries’ partnership, calling it an “axis” within the EU.
“Germany and France play a central role in this European Union, on this European continent,” he said.
The Franco-German Ministerial Council, created in 2003 as part of the Elysee Treaty’s 40th-anniversary renewal, brings German and French cabinets together. It aligns policies on the EU, defense, economy, and foreign affairs.
The meeting this time takes place against the backdrop of a , where Prime Minister Francois Bayrou is expected to face a confidence vote on September 8 that could topple his government.
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