Global Disputes - Focusing on Major Worldwide Conflicts and Issues - Laschet takes issue with Scholz's aloof attitude toward Macron.
Armin Laschet, the previous Minister President of North Rhine-Westphalia and CDU/CSU candidate for chancellorship in 2021, has voiced his concerns about the low-key relationship between Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron. According to Laschet, the lack of passion and deep friendship between the two leaders is evident. He also points out that the connection between Scholz and Macron isn't excusable due to Scholz's Hamburg origins, as former Chancellor Helmut Schmidt had a close bond with Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, another French president of the 1970s, despite both being from Hamburg.
Laschet further emphasizes that the friendly and cooperative connection between Helmut Kohl and François Mitterrand during their time in power had vital impacts on Europe, even though they came from different political camps. Angela Merkel, who served as chancellor alongside three French presidents, always understood the significance of a strong alliance between France and Germany in diplomatic matters. "I'd say we need more understanding and passion from the Federal Chancellor in these relationships," said Laschet.
Additionally, Laschet believed that Scholz and Macron's individual trips to Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow before the Russian invasion of Ukraine did not foster unity within European politics. Laschet was awarded the National Order of the French Legion of Honor in 2023, recognizing his commitment to the German-French relationship.
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Source: www.stern.de
