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国际观察|默茨首访聚焦欧洲 欲推欧洲防务自主
Xin Hua She· 2025-05-11 09:49
Group 1 - The new German Chancellor Merz aims to re-establish Germany's significant role in European politics through intensive visits to neighboring countries, signaling a commitment to revitalize the "Franco-German engine" and promote European defense autonomy [1][4]. - Merz's first visit to France highlights the importance of Franco-German relations, with discussions focusing on European defense, the Russia-Ukraine situation, and regional security cooperation [2][3]. - A key outcome of the Merz-Macron meeting is the establishment of a Franco-German Defense and Security Council to address strategic challenges and enhance cooperation in defense capabilities [2][3]. Group 2 - Merz's visits to Poland and Brussels are aimed at strengthening Germany's relationships with these countries and reaffirming Germany's leadership role within the EU [4][5]. - The Polish Prime Minister Tusk noted that Merz's visit provides new momentum for bilateral relations, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure connectivity, despite existing differences on border control and immigration [4]. - In Brussels, Merz expressed the need for Germany to play a strong and proactive role in the EU, indicating a desire to redefine Germany's position in European affairs [4][5]. Group 3 - Analysts suggest that Merz's approach reflects a shift towards European defense independence, particularly in light of changing transatlantic relations under the Trump administration [5][7]. - Merz has articulated the importance of European unity and the need for Germany to prepare for its own and Europe's security, aiming to expand European defense capabilities [6][7]. - A joint article by Merz and Macron emphasizes the need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security and to respond decisively to harmful measures from the U.S. [6][7].
国际观察丨欧洲军费“狂飙”背后的承压与破局
Xin Hua Wang· 2025-05-02 03:07
Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the article highlights the unprecedented increase in military spending in Europe, driven by security anxieties and a desire for defense autonomy amid perceived diminishing U.S. commitments to European security [1][2][3] - Since the outbreak of the Ukraine crisis, military spending in Europe has consistently risen, surpassing levels seen at the end of the Cold War, with all European countries, except Malta, increasing their military budgets in 2024 [2] - NATO member countries in Europe are projected to spend a total of $454 billion on military expenditures in 2024, accounting for approximately 55% of global military spending, with a significant increase in military spending relative to GDP compared to non-NATO countries [2] Group 2 - The report indicates that the surge in military spending is largely a response to concerns about Russia and the potential withdrawal of U.S. support, prompting European nations to reassess their defense strategies [2][3] - European leaders have increasingly called for greater responsibility in ensuring their own security, with initiatives aimed at enhancing defense autonomy gaining momentum, including various legislative measures to support defense production and procurement [4][5] - The European Union has set ambitious plans, such as the €800 billion "Rearm Europe" initiative and the "Ready for 2030" white paper, aimed at strengthening defense capabilities through increased investment and collaboration in the defense sector [5]