Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz convened for discussions in Salzburg, addressing key European matters. According to a statement released by the Austrian Chancellery, the meeting focused on irregular migration, Europe’s competitiveness and the continent’s security landscape. This marks the third encounter between the two leaders this year, underscoring a sustained pattern of engagement.
Chancellor Stocker emphasized the close working relationship between Austria and Germany, stating a shared desire for coordinated action regarding migration. Both leaders expressed support for the full implementation of the EU’s Asylum and Migration Pact. Geopolitical challenges, notably the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East, were also examined.
Stocker advocated for increased humanitarian aid for Gaza while simultaneously affirming Israel’s right to self-defense.
The meeting agenda extended to the EU’s budgetary framework, with Stocker voicing concerns about the current proposal from the EU Commission, which he deemed overly ambitious. He called for a more efficient allocation of resources. Regarding the infrastructure challenges at the Brenner Pass, Stocker sought German support for a base tunnel project and a shift of freight traffic towards rail transport.
