Merkel warmly bids goodbye to Trittin as he retires.
Over two decades ago, Angela Merkel took over as the leader of the Ministry of the Environment from the Green Party's Jürgen Trittin. However, throughout her long tenure as Chancellor, no coalition was formed. Recently, during a gathering to commemorate Trittin's exit from politics, Merkel expressed her regret for this missed opportunity. Additionally, she emphasized that neither the defense spending requirement nor the Greens nor Trittin himself was responsible for the failed attempt to form a Jamaica coalition in 2017.
At the event in Berlin, current and former Green ministers and parliamentary members bid farewell to the party veteran. In her speech, Merkel acknowledged the fact that a black-green alliance had not taken place in 2013. Trittin announced his resignation from the Bundestag in December, and he departed the Parliament at the start of January, following a 25-year career. From 1998 to 2005, he served as Environment Minister. Merkel was his predecessor in this position, holding it from 1994 to 1998.
Trittin also held other roles within the party and the parliamentary group. In recent years, he became known for his expertise in foreign policy. He turned 70 in July, like Merkel.
Merciful Reflections on Past Mishaps
Merkel delivered her remarks jovially, with frequent applause and laughter throughout her speech. The event in the Marie-Elisabeth-Lüders-Haus of the Bundestag was not open to the public. The head of the Chancellery, Wolfgang Schmidt, was also present. "Jürgen Trittin left a lasting mark as Federal Environment Minister that still influences us today," Merkel stated. She also acknowledged his penchant for compromise. In his own address, Trittin emphasized the importance of compromise, particularly between the government and the opposition. He believed that Germany's role as a bastion of democracy in Europe was due in part to this ability.
During his farewell, Trittin voiced his appreciation of the invitation for Merkel, stating that he and the two parliamentary group leaders wanted to demonstrate that people from different political parties can interact respectfully. "I spent 16 years opposting Mrs. Merkel, but we still respect each other," he stated. According to him, she "doesn't look down on anyone, but has the skill for a compelling speech. I was thrilled that she accepted the invitation."
A Superlative Politician
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock lauded Trittin for being "one who stands his ground during stormy times and doesn't back down." She hailed him as "one of the outstanding figures not only in green politics, but in politics as a whole." Baerbock applauded his analytical prowess, self-reflection, and "above all his ability to remain open to others' perspectives despite all the criticisms."
Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck lauded Trittin as a "courageous, powerful and steadfast fighter for sustainability, climate protection, and justice." He noted that Trittin was respected across the political spectrum, even amidst contentious disagreements, as everyone shared a common goal to serve the public. "I'm especially glad that Angela Merkel is paying tribute to him. And I know he's happy about it too. It's a beautiful gesture."
Environment Minister Steffi Lemke acknowledged Trittin's accomplishments in the areas of environmental, nature, and climate protection. In her opinion, he demonstrated "great stringency, great eloquence, and also toughness."
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Despite their political differences, Angela Merkel and Jürgen Trittin shared a warm interaction at the event, with Merkel expressing her regret for the missed opportunity to form a coalition between their parties during her tenure as Chancellor. Trittin, who served as Environment Minister under Merkel from 1998 to 2005 and later became known for his expertise in foreign policy, thanked Merkel for attending his farewell and acknowledged their respectful relationship despite their political opposition.
Source: www.ntv.de
