Hendrik Wüst, the head of government for North‑Rhein‑Westphalia, expressed satisfaction with the federal government’s recent work. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, he said that in Germany’s difficult situation the “Schwarz‑Rot” coalition-black‑red, referring to the SPD and the Greens-has found the right answers. “The federal government is clearly better than its reputation” he added, citing the “investment booster” and a steadier energy policy, which is crucial for industry, as examples. “The first steps have been taken. Now they must follow up quickly”.
Wüst also welcomed Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s emphasis on economic policy. “Too many people are worried about losing their jobs. That fear has to be dispelled. We need growth and solid frameworks so companies will invest again” he said. He praised Friedrich Merz for prioritising the economy this year, calling it important and right.
Calling for new alliances to inject dynamism into economic policy, Wüst suggested that the state’s constructive collaboration with the federal government and social partners serve as a model. “We followed the federal ‘scoping talks’ on economic policy with an impulse and worked very constructively with the social partners. That could be a model for the whole country”. He argued that a “coalition for innovation and jobs” could break the usual summit pattern – meetings where everyone presents demands and then goes home. Instead, we need a genuine, lasting, productive dialogue that secures industry and jobs. Both social partners and federal and state governments should sit together at the table so that agreements translate into real policy.
