The CDU leader delivered a speech supporting the state at the beginning of the Berlin party conference. Despite fears and predictions of a shift to the right, it did not materialize. When the CDU prime ministers praised Friedrich Merz for his speech, there was little attention as most delegates had already left the hall. However, Merz’s speech, lasting almost an hour and a half, did not provide any room for opponents to attack.
Merz presented himself as a statesman advocating for the political center in Germany. His speech covered various topics typical of CDU party conferences, including the party’s history, Christian values, local political successes, and international crises. The theme of the conference was “Winning the future together,” emphasizing the party’s readiness for government responsibility at the federal level.
He criticized the current governing coalition and reiterated the CDU’s commitment to freedom and responsibility in politics. Merz highlighted the importance of unity between CDU and CSU and emphasized the need for a strong welfare state supported by prosperity from maintaining Germany’s industrial position. He also addressed security issues, especially in relation to the armed forces and international threats like the war in Ukraine.
Merz criticized parties like AfD for undermining European values with support from Russia but did not mention left-wing parties directly in his speech, implying a willingness to work with them under certain conditions. The party conference confirmed Merz in office with almost 90% of delegates’ support, signaling a positive outcome. However, the real test will be