CDU candidate for chancellor @ArminLaschet gives a keynote speech at @KASonline on foreign policy today. He begins by identifying an international epochal change: rise of China, new technologies, disregard for international law and populist movements, polypandemic, climate change
.@ArminLaschet says we must not only react to crises, but act in a forward-looking manner. Proposes a National Security Council to position Germany more strategically. This is the first time the proposal has come from someone who might have the power to implement it. @ischinger
Wants a "national security strategy" too. Broadly dicussed in the Bundestag.
Stresses that we must think of foreign policy in European terms. Wants to link the "language of power" with instruments of power. Says that the ruthless autocrats of this world will not be impressed by soft power and the "Datenschutzgrundverordnung" alone.
Stresses: Europe needs military capabilities and a robust security policy. In terms of security policy, close cooperation with Great Britain is indispensable.
Says: No equidistance between the US and China. Europe's place is alongside the US and Canada. Wants to strengthen cooperation between democracies. Supports Joe Biden's idea of cooperation between "like-minded-countries".
In the Q&A afterwards, he says he would not change anything in Germany's current Russia policy."Russia is a neighbour, in many questions also a partner, but Russia is also perceived by many as a threat." Stresses Germany's place is alongside Central and Eastern Europe.
In the Q&A, @ArminLaschet adopts the phrase "China is a partner, competitor and rival".
Ends with a great commitment to European integration. Calls Recovery Fund "quantum leap". Single market only works if our neighbours are strong. However, he does not want the mutualisation of debts in the long run.
In sum: A lot of Merkel continuity in his approach towards Russia and China, clear commitment to 2% and NATO, much emphasis on new technologies and climate change. I was happy to see the National Security Council & Strategy mentioned.
And whoever wants to see for theselves, here is the link to the whole speech (in English):
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