The German-Netherlands Corps in Münster is the best example of how Germany’s military efforts are fundamentally European and transatlantic, stated Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz during his visit to the German-Netherlands Corps in Münster. He continued by saying that, since July, the corps has been securing NATO’s eastern flank in Estonia and Latvia, thereby making a key contribution to our security. 

“The Corps embodies what matters today: a strong Germany and a strong Netherlands, firmly rooted in a strong NATO and a strong European Union”, said Merz, stressing that Germany is committed to the freedom and security of its European neighbours. 

The most important points in brief:

• NATO is a cornerstone: “NATO has been the cornerstone of the Euro-Atlantic peace framework for three generations,” Merz emphasised. It safeguards freedom, security and prosperity in Germany and Europe, serving the cause of peace. It is therefore only fitting that NATO should be honoured with the International Award of the Peace of Westphalia by the Economic Society for Westphalia and Lippe (Wirtschaftliche Gesellschaft für Westfalen und Lippe).    
• Threat from Russia: Russia has challenged the European peace framework through violent revisionism. In Ukraine Russia has unleashed a murderous war, showing disregard and contempt for law and order, with Europe’s security also at stake in Ukraine. That is why Ukraine is being supported with all our might.     
• A free, secure and united Europe: Germany can only have a bright future in a free, secure and united Europe. Germany is therefore, together with the Netherlands and its other partners, assuming responsibility within a revitalised NATO alliance. “Together, we are making NATO more European so that it remains transatlantic,” Merz explained.         

The German-Netherlands Corps was established in 1995 and, amongst other things, carries out multinational missions. All the associated units have a combined strength of around 1,100 soldiers. In the field, the forces assigned to the Corps can comprise up to 80,000 soldiers, depending on the mission.   

Read the full statement here (in German only):