As the first foreign guest this year, Chancellor Angela Merkel received the French President Emmanuel Macron in Berlin.
Berlin (dpa) - Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) sees the EU as facing "major challenges" in dealing with Russia and Turkey.
“On the one hand there are differences of opinion, on the other hand we depend on each other if we want to shape certain questions together. That is the question of migration, that is the question of the future of Libya, that is the question of the future of Syria, ”said Merkel on Friday in Berlin on the relationship with Turkey. She spoke at the start of a visit by French President Emmanuel Macron.
At the G7 summit, the relationship with Russia was also a big question. “Russia is a big challenge for us. But Russia is also the major continental neighbor of the European Union, ”said Merkel. “We have to realize that we are all exposed to hybrid attacks. But, on the other hand, we have a great interest if we want security and stability in the European Union, that we also keep in touch with Russia, no matter how difficult it is. "
Macron agreed: “I share everything that has been said about Turkey and Russia.” In relation to Turkey, positions of the EU countries Greece and Cyprus as well as their own strategic position in the Eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East, Libya and be observed in the Caucasus.
A common line must be found vis-à-vis Russia.
Merkel thanked US President Joe Biden for starting dialogue with the Russian government.
Dinner at the Chancellery was on the agenda for Merkel and Macron.
In addition to European policy issues, the main focus will be on the Franco-German vote before the European Council, at which the heads of state and government of the EU will meet in Brussels on June 24th and 25th.
© dpa-infocom, dpa: 210618-99-53838 / 4
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Angela Merkel and Emmanuel Macron agree on issues relating to Turkey and Russia.
© Axel Schmidt
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Emmanuel Macron is greeted by Angela Merkel in front of the Federal Chancellery.
© Kay Nietfeld