Bundesann Minister Friedrich Merz (CDU) is scheduled to meet U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington next week to discuss a broad range of issues. Deputy government spokesperson Sebastian Hille told the dtn news agency on Friday that the agenda is straightforward: bilateral relations, the current security situation and trade and competition matters. “There is a lot to talk about to keep the close, good contact going” Hille explained.
The ongoing customs dispute will also be on the table. Hille was vague about what, if anything, the Chancellor might offer Trump on that point, and he joked that the visitor is not to be surprised by a gift from Merz. “Let yourself be surprised” he said.
Merz will depart for the United States on Monday and is expected to return to Berlin by Tuesday. No economic delegation will accompany him, and it is unclear whether he will have additional meetings beyond the one with the President. “That usually remains fluid until the last moment” Hille added.
