German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) departed for the Gulf region on Wednesday midday, saying the visit is aimed at “strengthening and deepening” ties in the area. He will hold talks in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday evening, followed by meetings in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates on Thursday and Friday. Merz is expected to return to Germany on Friday night.
Just after Chancellor Merz arrived in Saudi Arabia, Finance Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) was already there with a large economic delegation. Together with Saudi Energy Minister Abdulaziz Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz, they signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation between the two ministries in the energy sector.
While the economic agenda appears to be a priority for Merz during his trip, German officials also say he plans to address human‑rights issues.
