Maintaining brevity is crucial, while allowing for ample space for expressing thoughts. Ensuring this individual has an opportunity to voice his ideas. - "It's essential to keep the conversation concise, allowing him to express himself fully"
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz Adopts Diplomatic Approach in Trump Calls
In his first phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump after his inauguration in May, Friedrich Merz maintained a friendly, yet cautious demeanor. During subsequent conversations this month, the German leader disclosed some intriguing insights about his interactions with the American president.
At the Republica digital conference in Berlin, Merz shared his experiences during phone calls with Trump. He noted that the word "great" seemed to pepper most of Trump's conversations, appearing almost every second or third word. When engaged in group calls, coordination is paramount, but a one-on-one chat with Trump, Merz remarked, is simply casual banter. However, there's one essential rule to follow during all communications with Trump: never overshadow him. "It's crucial to speak briefly and give him ample opportunity to speak as well," Merz underlined.
Trump's self-centered nature is well-documented, and it appears unchanged even during phone calls, according to Merz. "It's very much about him," said Merz, when asked about the president's focus during discussions. To ensure one's views and political concerns are effectively addressed, leaders must master the art of timing, finding the right moment when Trump is receptive. "You need to adapt to him and engage him," Merz explained.
Stepping delicately between submissiveness and rejection, Merz recommended a healthy dose of self-assurance when engaging with Trump. "That's my most important prerequisite for us to reasonably communicate with him," he said, referring to Europe's partners. As a significant trade partner, especially within the tech industry, Germany should approach these conversations exuding confidence without excessive arrogance, Merz advised. The EU's economic dependence on the U.S. is an important context to consider, but it should not dominate the discussions.
- Given the recent discussions with President Trump, the Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, considering the potential impact of war-and-conflicts migration.
- In politics, striking the right balance is essential, much like how Merz navigates his conversations with Trump, ensuring ample time for general-news topics such as policy-and-legislation, while also addressing specific issues like car-accidents or crime-and-justice.
- It's interesting to note that Merz's approach can be applicable beyond diplomatic relations, such as negotiations between European partners on sports-betting regulations, where the art of timing and adaptability are key.
- However, it'simportant to remember that although Trump's focus is primarily self-centered, accidents, fires, and even sports can serve as common grounds for engaging him meaningfully.
- As part of Merz's diplomatic strategy, he strongly emphasized the importance of self-assurance, not only in dealing with Trump but also when addressing concerns like migration or tech trade within the EU.
- In light of the current political landscape, it might be prudent for the European Commission to analyze Merz's insights when drafting a directive on worker safety, ensuring it addresses the specific risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation without overshadowing other policy-and-legislation priorities.
