Meretz wants to generalize the Bavarian model to restrict financial aid to refugees
During German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to the "Zugspitze" summit, Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder praised the successes achieved by the federal government in immigration policy. Söder stated that the number of asylum seekers has significantly decreased, pointing out that Germany is no longer the "reckless driver of immigration," but there is now a fundamental change in direction.
He pointed out that the temporary monitoring of borders has led to enhanced controls on the external borders of countries like Poland, adding that the federal government is in talks with all neighboring countries to regulate immigration, emphasizing that this monitoring will remain temporary until a European solution is reached. In Bavaria, Söder clarified that the number of refugees leaving voluntarily has started to rise again, attributing this to the implementation of the "payment card" system for social assistance in the state, which limits cash benefits. Merz confirmed that he will work to introduce this system within the governing coalition in Berlin, even though it has not yet been agreed upon with the Social Democratic Party.
In a closed meeting with Bavarian ministers, Merz discussed economic issues with them, where Söder expressed his concern about the ongoing economic recession that has lasted for three years. Despite Bavaria's economic leadership in Germany in several areas such as GDP, industry, and universities, there are fears about the potential impact of US tariffs. Merz expressed hope for reaching an agreement with the United States by August, emphasizing that the European Union should not respond to US tariffs with similar tariffs, but at the same time warned against underestimating Europe's seriousness in taking countermeasures if necessary.
The recession, according to Merz, also has structural causes, especially in the decline of productivity. The latest economic figures are merely indicators of hope and not evidence of a lasting recovery. Soeder renewed his call to maintain traditional combustion engines, affirming Bavaria's belief in technological freedom away from ideologies. He confirmed that the state is working on building a technical ecosystem based on artificial intelligence and quantum computing, which requires massive investments in energy. Soeder called for expanding the use of gas and expanding the electricity grid in southern Germany, along with supporting renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, biogas, and biomass.
Merz announced his intention to visit all German states to enhance cooperation with local governments, emphasizing the importance of building mutual trust between the federal government and the states. As for the traditional reception organized by the "Gipfelstürmer" - elderly Bavarians dressed in traditional attire - Söder described it as part of the culture, although it carries some stereotypes, commenting sarcastically that they are like the "Bavarian army... when needed."