International

With the new gov­ern­ment in pow­er: Can the Fran­co-Ger­man re­boot suc­ceed?

Following the inaugural visit of Germany’s new Chancellor Friedrich Merz to Paris, many observers were optimistic. In view of global crises, European partners are expecting swift and strong initiatives. But can "Merzcron" — as the French press has dubbed the new Franco-German duo — truly deliver the much-quoted Franco-German reboot?

What initiatives are anticipated, and what obstacles must be overcome? Jean-Marie Magro, editor at BR/ARD and author of the book Radatouille (dtv), offers an initial insight. On his very personal Tour de France, this Franco-German journalist travelled more than 3,000 kilometres, getting to know the country in all its diversity. In conversation with fellows of the Franco-German Parliamentary Internship Programme, he will share his encounters and observations.

To explore the perspectives and challenges of the often-invoked Franco-German engine, journalist Pascal Thibaut (Radio France Internationale) will then moderate a discussion with:

  • Gunther Krichbaum (CDU), Member of the Bundestag, Minister of State for Europe and Commissioner for Franco-German Cooperation

  • Sara Nanni (Alliance 90/The Greens), Member of the Bundestag, Deputy Member of the Franco-German Parliamentary Assembly

The event is supported by the German Academic Exchange Service DAAD as part of the Franco-German Parliamentary Internship Programme and takes place in cooperation with the Centre Marc Bloch.

Time

10.07.2025, 6 pm – 8 pm

Place

Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Festsaal, Luisenstraße 56, 10115 Berlin