Close coordination between Germany and France is very important, emphasised Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel during a press briefing with French Prime Minister Cazeneuve at the Chancellery. Germany and France are both exposed to terrorist threats; these can be averted only by the closest cooperation, said the politicians in a joint statement.

Close Cooperation at all levels

Working closely together in the sphere of economic policy was also necessary, underlined Merkel with reference to the EU: Europe can only be strong if both countries prosper economically. Germany and France, she said, are linked through their very close trade relations. She added that Cazeneuve's Germany visit made clear "that we want to be the driving force" in European integration. Cooperation between the two countries, she said, is close at all levels.

Regarding the EU situation on the whole, Merkel announced that the forthcoming 60th anniversary in March of the signing of the Treaties of Rome would be a further topic of talks.

Finding answers for all those who are sceptical about Europe

Cazeneuve characterised German-French partnership as a "genuine and day-to-day reality". His first bilateral visit since his appointment as Prime Minister led him to Germany. He said this is a sign of his commitment to maintaining the German-French dialogue which is of such importance for Europe.

Cazeneuve added that the joint responsibility of Germany and France "in these turbulent times" consisted above all in "finding very specific answers for those who are sceptical about the added value of Europe".