Critics from the Green party challenge Scholz's tough stance on China tariffs.
Green politicians express disappointment and confusion over Chancellor Scholz's decision to vote against EU tariffs on Chinese electric cars in cabinet. Party leader Ricarda Lang labeled the move incorrect, while Katharina Dröge, the leader of the Fraktion, referred to it as a significant mistake. Co-fraction leader Britta Haßelfeld criticized Germany for going against Europe with this decision, using the term "no" from Scholz.
Previously, Scholz exercised his executive authority in council to decide that Berlin would vote against the tariffs on Friday. According to coalition sources, Economics Minister Robert Habeck and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock of the Greens opposed a negative vote, but FDP leader Christian Lindner advocated for it. In a previous vote in Brussels, Germany had abstained due to internal disagreements within the traffic light government.
Lang wrote that this decision could leave Europe powerless against China. She criticized Scholz's decision for isolating Germany in the EU and deemed it economically and geopolitically unwise to do so. Dröge argued that it is a strategic error to go against the EU line on this issue and give in to China's demands. However, it is suggested that Economics Minister Habeck will continue to support Scholz's decision.
It's highly probable that Germany will be outvoted in Brussels. Representatives from France, Italy, Poland, and Greece, which together make up 39% of the population, have expressed their intention to vote in favor of the taxes. To achieve a qualified majority against the EU Commission's proposal, at least 15 countries representing 65% of the EU population are required.
The Green Group's party leader, Ricarda Lang, criticized Scholz's decision as economically and geopolitically unwise, potentially leaving Europe powerless against China's influence. Within The Green Group, Dröge, the leader of the Fraktion, also argued against this strategy, stating it's a strategic error to go against the EU line on this issue.
