Global Response to Merz’s Electoral Victory Amid Concerns Over…

Following Friedrich Merz’s victory in the German elections, global leaders extended their congratulations, yet concerns arose regarding the far-right AfD’s impressive 20.8 percent of the vote. Merz faces significant challenges in coalition-building and navigating geopolitical complexities. Leaders from the EU, the USA, and other nations emphasized the importance of strategic cooperation, while some focused on the ramifications of the AfD’s rise.

Global leaders extended their congratulations to Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), following his electoral victory in Germany. While many leaders celebrated Merz’s success, they also expressed concerns regarding the substantial gain made by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which finished second with approximately 20.8 percent of the vote.

Facing the challenge of forming a coalition government, Merz is anticipated to lead Germany towards sustainable economic growth while navigating complex geopolitical landscapes. International responses varied, with some leaders focusing on the need for governance stability and a joint approach to European issues.

European Council President Antonio Costa expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Merz for a prosperous and autonomous Europe. Similarly, High Representative of the European Union Kaja Kallas highlighted the urgency for a new government, stating that swift action is necessary to address decisions requiring German participation.

From the United States, President Donald Trump praised Merz’s win, claiming it reflected a broader shift against policies he described as lacking common sense. He emphasized the victory as beneficial for both Germany and the United States, asserting that more victories would follow.

The Kremlin’s response was measured, urging patience to see how German-Russian relations develop under the new government. Dmitry Peskov, a Kremlin spokesman, mentioned hopes for a more rational approach to bilateral interests moving forward.

French President Emmanuel Macron communicated his congratulations to Merz, underscoring the necessity of unity to confront major global challenges. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed eagerness to strengthen ties with the new German government for mutual security and growth.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy interpreted the vote as a decisive choice by German voters, aiming for collaboration to enhance European defense and industry during the ongoing conflict with Russia. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte also congratulated Merz, emphasizing the importance of enhanced defense spending in this critical period.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended the CDU’s electoral success, expressing hope to deepen relations between Germany and Israel in future collaborations. Conversely, some leaders, particularly from Hungary, Italy, and Austria, highlighted the AfD’s success as indicative of a significant political change in Germany.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban celebrated the far-right’s influence, while Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini characterized the election as a victory for change. Furthermore, the leader of the Austrian Freedom Party viewed the results as indicative of growing discontent with current policies among voters.

Jewish groups displayed alarm over the AfD’s electoral gains, with Josef Schuster, leader of Germany’s Central Council of Jews, expressing shock at the party’s significant increase in voter support. Schuster emphasized the necessity for vigilance against the ascent of right-wing extremism as reflected in the election results.

In summary, Friedrich Merz’s electoral victory has garnered widespread international recognition, yet it underscores the rising concerns regarding the far-right AfD’s electoral gains. Global leaders are keen to collaborate with Merz while remaining cautious about the implications of the AfD’s success. The challenging political landscape ahead demands strategic coalition-building and responsiveness to both domestic and international pressures.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com