German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) and several other heads of state and government issued a joint statement on Wednesday, stressing that all parties must push towards a lasting resolution following the agreed two-week ceasefire in the Middle East. They stated that the immediate goal must be negotiating a swift and permanent end to the war in the coming days, achievable only through diplomatic means. The group emphasized the need for rapid progress toward a substantial negotiated solution. This resolution is considered crucial for protecting the civilian population in Iran and ensuring regional security. Furthermore, they noted that a negotiated settlement could help avert a severe global energy crisis, adding that they remain closely connected with the United States and other partners regarding these efforts. According to the signatories, they called on all sides to implement the ceasefire, including in Lebanon, and also intend to contribute to guaranteeing the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The statement was signed by Merz, as well as French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and EU Council President António Costa.
Politics
