Adequate is the brevity in speech, allowing for the other to express their thoughts too. - Allowing brevity and giving him ample speaking space is crucial.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz adjusts approach in conversations with President Trump
Friedrich Merz, the newly-appointed Chancellor of Germany, held his first phone conversation with US President Donald Trump shortly after taking office in early May. The conversation, described as amicable, concluded with both leaders inviting each other to their respective countries. The lack of controversy surrounding the call might have made it pass unnoticed, were it not Merz's initial call with Trump.
Merz has maintained contact with Trump throughout the month, with several subsequent calls taking place. During a recent appearance at the Republica digital conference in Berlin, Merz revealed some intriguing details regarding his interactions with the US President. For instance, he mentioned that Trump frequently uses the word "great," rendering it "every second or third word" in their discussions.
In one-on-one calls with Trump, Merz noted that the conversations are primarily informal. However, he emphasized the necessity of not monopolizing the discussion, explaining, "it's important to speak briefly and let him speak too."
Trump is noted for his self-centered dialogue, often employing superlatives when discussing his presidency. Merz confirmed this trait during the conference, echoing EU partners' concerns about approaching these conversations with a balanced level of self-assurance. "We should approach these conversations with a healthy dose of self-assurance, without overdoing it," Merz suggested.
While the specifics of their conversations remain undisclosed, Merz has been proactive in advocating for trade and international relations. He has urged Trump to end the ongoing trade war and eliminate tariffs, suggesting a zero-tariff policy would prove beneficial for both nations. Additionally, Merz has highlighted the importance of the EU as an essential market, particularly for the US tech industry.
In managing his conversations with Trump, Merz has been strategic. From building personal connections, such as inviting Trump to visit his ancestral village in Germany, to aligning himself with European leaders before sensitive discussions, Merz has demonstrated a keen understanding of navigating international diplomacy. Moreover, during calls involving multiple leaders, Merz has been direct in inquiring about specific concessions or actions, ensuring that key points are raised and discussed openly.
- Friedrich Merz
- Donald Trump
- Europe
- USA
- Germany
- Trade
- International Relations
- Diplomacy
- Friedrich Merz, during his appearance at the Republica digital conference in Berlin, shared that he has been advocating for a zero-tariff policy in trade discussions with Donald Trump to benefit both the USA and Europe.
- In managing his conversations with Donald Trump, Merz has strategically built personal connections, such as inviting the US President to visit his ancestral village in Germany, and has demonstrated a keen understanding of navigating international diplomacy.
- Amidst discussions on trade and international relations, Merz has emphasized the importance of the EU as a crucial market, particularly for the US tech industry.
- Merz has also been proactive in aligning himself with European leaders before delicate conversations with Donald Trump.
- With his recent proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, the Commission has added a new topic to its policy-and-legislation discussions, which might also draw the attention of international entities like the USA and European Union.
