“Germany and Ireland also stand side by side in the European Union”, said Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the start of the press conference with Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin. In this way, he underlined the talks’ focus on European policy. Ireland will take over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from 1 July to 31 December 2026. 

There was said to be broad agreement on the key issues for Ireland’s Presidency of the Council: strengthening European competitiveness and the timely finalisation of the new EU budget. The Federal Chancellor also spoke with his Irish guest about the situation in the Middle East and the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine. All of these issues are also expected to be discussed at the informal meeting of European heads of state and government in Cyprus next week.

The most important points in brief: 

• EU budget and competitiveness: In the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the EU will determine its budgetary policy for the years 2028 to 2034. The aim is to finalise the negotiations by the end of 2026 and reach an agreement. “We need a modernised medium-term financial plan that focuses on the European Union’s ability to act, especially with regard to the competitiveness of our industry and our defence capability, and which also sets priorities”, emphasised Merz.
• Middle East: Both countries share the view that there will be no sustainable peace in the region without a diplomatic approach. In particular, Merz called for a viable agreement on the Strait of Hormuz and an agreement on Iran’s military nuclear programme.
• Ukraine: Merz emphasised that support for Ukraine against Russia’s armed assault must not be allowed to diminish. He said that Germany and Ireland were in agreement that Ukraine urgently needed financial resources to defend itself militarily against Russia. The loan of 90 billion euros for Ukraine therefore needed to be implemented quickly. The Chancellor explained that Hungary was no longer expected to maintain its blockade due to the new government taking office.

The Presidency of the EU Council rotates every six months between the Member States of the Union. During this time, the respective country chairs the meetings of the Council, organises its work and represents the Council in dealings with other EU institutions. To this end, the Council Presidency can also set its own political priorities. Further information can be found on the EU Council Presidency page. 

Read the transcript of the press conference here (in German only):