Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s first official visit to Washington is underway,with a potential meeting with leading members of the US Congress under consideration. Government spokesman Stefan Kornelius stated on Wednesday that,”It is still being worked on. There is the idea that you coudl do that, but there is also a schedule on the Hill,” referring to Capitol Hill, where the US parliament is located. merz is scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump at the White House during lunchtime.

Kornelius highlighted that discussions between German and american government officials have been ongoing for over two weeks, characterized by “a vrey positive and constructive tone.” He added that the Chancellor is approaching the visit with confidence, given Germany’s position as the world’s third-largest economy. “At the same time, a very constructive and positive relationship with America is very significant to us, also for our own economy and for the security of Germany and Europe, of course, also the support of the USA in the Ukraine conflict,” Kornelius stated.

Trade Tensions in Focus

Trade relations are expected to be a key topic in the discussions with Trump. The United States and the EU are currently engaged in negotiations regarding high tariffs on goods from the EU and potential countermeasures. “The Commission prepares solutions if there are no negotiation results,” said the spokesman. He confirmed that all options remain on the table.

“Simultaneously occurring, a very constructive and positive relationship with America is very critically important to us.”