The French Prime Minister made his first foreign trip to Berlin for a working dinner with Chancellor Olaf Scholz, despite numerous points of disagreement between the two countries. This visit is meant to emphasize his commitment to Europe. The two leaders will hold a joint press conference and then have dinner at the Chancellery. Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Berlin and praised the former German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schäuble for his dedication to Franco-German friendship during a speech at a national tribute in the Bundestag.

One of the major points of contention between the two countries is their opposing energy models, especially regarding the electricity market. Another source of tension is Germany’s desire for France to provide more weapons to Ukraine, the second largest supporter after the United States. The conflict in Ukraine has exacerbated differences between France and Germany not only in defense and energy policies, but also in economic and trade policies. The European Sky Shield project, announced in 2022 at a NATO summit, has sparked disagreement as well.

This project, initiated by Germany and now involving 18 countries, is based on American and Israeli technologies. France and Italy are working on a similar project based on European technology, citing a preference for European sovereignty. The Mercosur trade agreement with South America is another point of contention between Paris and Berlin, particularly opposed by farmers in both countries. Despite the protests, Germany has not changed its position on the controversial trade agreement.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his support for free trade agreements, including the Mercosur agreement, while French President Macron highlighted the need to address inconsistencies and not rush into such agreements.