German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron are scheduled to meet in Berlin this Wednesday for discussions encompassing responses to proposed US tariffs and collaborative defense initiatives, including projects related to space utilization.
According to officials, a key focus of the meeting will be formulating a coordinated EU response to the potential imposition of 30% tariffs on European imports, announced by US President Donald Trump and slated to take effect on August 1st. This development is considered particularly critical for cornerstone industries like the automotive sector. “Germany and France stand closely aligned in addressing the significant challenges facing Europe” stated Kanzleramtsminister Thorsten Frei.
Beyond trade policy, the leaders are expected to address joint defense projects aimed at bolstering European security. Discussions will cover strategies to support Ukraine’s defense against ongoing aggression, alongside reinforcing the continent’s long-term security posture.
The two nations already maintain a history of collaborative conventional arms projects. The agenda also includes exploration of joint ventures in the realm of space technology, a domain increasingly vital for surveillance, communication and navigation. Officials expressed a shared concern regarding potential technological advantages gained by China and the United States in this area. A joint cabinet meeting between German and French ministers is planned for late August in Toulon, France, to further these discussions.
