BERLIN: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz launched a visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday, seeking to strengthen energy and defence ties as Europe’s largest economy works to lessen its reliance on the U.S. and China.
“At a time when global politics is increasingly shaped by major powers, we need these partnerships more than ever,” Merz said at the start of the three-day tour, adding that such alliances aim to safeguard freedom, security, and economic prosperity.
“Our partners may not always share identical values or interests, but they recognise the need for a global order built on trust, agreements, and mutual respect,” he said.
The trip follows Merz’s visits to Brazil and South Africa last year and India last month, forming part of Germany’s broader strategy to diversify its international alliances.
“By building a network of partnerships, we can reduce one-sided dependencies, lower risks, and create new opportunities that benefit all sides,” he added.
During the Gulf visit, Merz said Germany is looking to deepen collaboration in energy and defence industries, noting that Berlin is taking a more flexible stance on arms exports, with groundwork laid by the country’s economy minister last week.
QATAR ALREADY A MAJOR INVESTOR IN GERMANY
Ties between Germany and Saudi Arabia were strained following the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Merz acknowledged some progress on human rights but said further improvements are needed and will be raised during discussions.
Gulf nations, supported by large sovereign wealth funds, already have a significant economic presence in Germany. Qatar ranks among the country’s largest foreign investors, holding stakes in firms such as Volkswagen, energy company RWE, and shipping giant Hapag-Lloyd.
Merz said he would also discuss broader regional matters, urging greater peace, stability, and cooperation, including the normalization of relations with Israel.
“Israel should one day be an accepted part of this regional order rather than viewed as an outsider,” he said, referencing the delicate balance Gulf nations maintain between Israel and the Palestinians.
On Iran, Merz outlined three demands: that Tehran cease violence against its own citizens, halt its military nuclear ambitions, and stop actions that destabilise the region.
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