Friedrich Merz has won the German elections, receiving congratulations from global leaders. However, concerns are raised regarding the rise of the far-right AfD party, which achieved a record 20.8% of the vote. Merz now faces the challenge of coalition-building and economic recovery as international reactions vary in support and apprehension.
The recent election victory of Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has sparked a range of international responses. While many global leaders congratulated Merz on his success, they also voiced concerns regarding the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which achieved its best result to date with 20.8% of the vote, finishing second.
Merz’s triumph places him in a crucial position to potentially become the next Chancellor of Germany. He now faces the challenging task of forming a coalition government, reviving Germany’s economy, and addressing complex geopolitical issues.
Following the election results, notable reactions emerged from several world leaders. European Council President Antonio Costa expressed eagerness to collaborate with Merz for a stronger and more autonomous Europe, emphasizing the need for unity in addressing current challenges.
The United States’ President Donald Trump praised Merz’s victory, suggesting it reflects a broader shift away from a perceived ineffective agenda. He stated, “Much like the USA, the people of Germany got tired of the no common sense agenda,… Congratulations to all – many more victories to follow!”
From Russia, the Kremlin responded with caution, stating they would await the new government’s approach to future relations. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov remarked on the desire for a sober diplomatic relationship between Russia and Germany.
France’s President Emmanuel Macron congratulated Merz and underlined the commitment to work together to build a stronger Europe amid ongoing uncertainty. He stated that Europe needs to be united in facing global challenges.
The UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, also congratulated Merz via social media, expressing anticipation in strengthening ties between Germany and Britain, particularly in security and economic growth.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine interpreted the results as a significant voter decision and ready to collaborate on issues of peace and security. He emphasized the necessity for Europe to unify efforts in supporting its defense.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte reflected on the security landscape, stating Merz’s leadership is crucial for enhancing defense spending in Europe. He congratulated Merz, highlighting the essential nature of cooperation in this crucial moment.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended his congratulations to the CDU and its Bavarian ally, indicating an eagerness to strengthen bilateral ties moving forward.
Conversely, some leaders chose to focus primarily on the AfD’s significant election gains. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban congratulated AfD leader Alice Weidel on achieving a notable increase in votes, expressing concern over the substantial shift in Germany’s political landscape.
Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini conveyed that the election results indicated a desire for change, referencing the increased support for the far right and criticizing prior government policies.
In Austria, Herbert Kickl, leader of the Freedom Party, noted the election results as a breach in the barrier against the AfD, reflecting a public discontent with current governance and policies associated with immigration.
Jewish organizations expressed alarm regarding the AfD’s electoral success. The head of Germany’s Central Council of Jews, Josef Schuster, stated, “…I am also shocked…by the electoral success of the AfD…that is at least partly right-wing extremist…” underscoring concerns about the implications for democracy and social values.
The election victory of Friedrich Merz marks a significant shift in German politics, as he prepares to take on the chancellorship amid a burgeoning far-right presence exemplified by the AfD’s historic polling success. Global reactions highlight a mixture of support for Merz while raising alarms about the implications of far-right populism in Germany and Europe. Leaders from various nations expressed optimism for cooperation yet acknowledged the urgent need for vigilance concerning the evolving political landscape.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
