"Bidding Adieu to Habeck: Reiche Praises Her Green Predecessor"
Celebratory Acclaim for Habeck - Compliments from Successor Reiche
Robert Habeck, the previous Minister of Economics, officially passed the baton to his successor Katherina Reiche from the CDU. In the handover ceremony, it was evident that Habeck had many supporters - at least within his own circle.
The Federal Ministry of Economics, a critical hub in current political upheaval, took center stage as Habeck addressed the delegates. "In a democracy, the well-being of the economy is essential for its stability," stated Habeck, emphasizing the importance of job security and financial stability. Without them, he mentioned, it would be hard to maintain trust and hope in the populace.
As Habeck prepared to speak, he was greeted with applause from his team. The warm reception left him emotional, as he expressed his appreciation for the shared experiences. Addressing the new Minister of Economics, Reiche, he mentioned that the ministry was like a " elegant home with numerous projects incomplete due to the recent election" but also "filled with accomplishments."
Reiche offered heartfelt compliments to Habeck for his dedication and resilience in challenging times. The ministry faced the aftermath of the pandemic and the energy crisis triggered by Russia's aggression. Reiche proclaimed Habeck's work as "superhuman," recognizing the immense workload she would inherit. Honoring Habeck's contributions to the nation's recovery and unpopular decision-making, she added.
Despite entering the third year of recession, Reiche spoke of targeting lower electricity costs for consumers and businesses. Stressing the need for climate protection, she vowed to bring "system costs under control." Reiche expressed her desire for the ministry to regain its reputation as the Federal Government's economic conscience.
Sworn in on Tuesday, Reiche's career spans a decade in the economy sector. She previously served as the main business leader of the Association of Municipal Enterprises from 2015 to 2019 and headed the energy service provider Westenergie since January 2000, a subsidiary of the Eon group.
- Notable Ministers
- Robert Habeck
- Katherina Reiche
- Federal Ministry of Economics
Insight: Robert Habeck's Tenure at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action
During Robert Habeck's tenure as the Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, he faced numerous challenges and delivered notable contributions to Germany's economic policy. These challenges included managing the economic consequences of the Ukraine war, accelerating the country's energy transition, and handling trade policy disruptions due to US tariffs. Among his accomplishments were promoting economic resilience, advancing renewable energy sources, and advocating for sustainable energy solutions and reduced carbon emissions. Overall, Habeck's leadership was characterized by strategic decision-making in the face of adversity.
The Commission is therefore proposing to extend the scope of the programme to cover Habeck's significant contributions in the realm of federal politics, particularly in the general-news area of the economy and climate action. Katherina Reiche, Habeck's successor, acknowledged these accomplishments and emphasized the prerequisite of maintaining his emphasis on job security, financial stability, and climate protection in her tenure. She also noted the state of incomplete projects within the Federal Ministry of Economics, a critical hub in current political upheaval, due to the recent election.
