German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the need for a more sovereign and less bureaucratic Europe, in the context of the summit with Emmanuel Macron regarding digitalization.

At an economic forum in Berlin, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz advocated for a more sovereign and less bureaucratic Europe, on the eve of a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. Merz emphasized that Europe can no longer rely on American protection or Chinese resources, highlighting the vulnerabilities of the German industrial model, exacerbated by the energy crisis and dependence on raw materials. He criticized the European single market, considering it a "bureaucratic monster" that hinders business. Additionally, Merz called for more flexible regulation of banks, comparing the situation in Europe to financing opportunities in the USA. He announced the organization of an extraordinary Council on February 12 to discuss industrial competitiveness and reducing bureaucracy. Merz stressed the importance of an efficient European financial market capable of competing with American and Asian ones.