For "a window of opportunity in diplomacy", which "could slowly open" for Ukraine was mentioned by Chancellor Friedrich Murch, stressing that Kiev is now "in a new position of power" and that Russia "can no longer win militarily". Leaving for the G7 summit in Evian, Mr Murch also referred to "positive developments" in the Middle East, congratulating both the American and the Iranian sides on the framework agreement they announced. However, he noted that the forthcoming summit takes place in a "extremely troubled phase of global policy" and amid significant challenges for the economy.
"Despite the attacks we saw last night, the dynamics of the war in Ukraine have in recent days shifted significantly in favour of Ukraine, (...) which is now in a new position of power. Russia can no longer win militarily. Furthermore, its economy is weakened," said the chancellor just before his departure for France, which from today to June 17 hosts the G7 Summit and added that "with the utmost caution and caution, it seems that he can slowly open a window for diplomacy and this presents an opportunity." Mr Murch even pointed out that as a basis for launching a new diplomatic effort could serve the five points on which he, the President of France Emanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Kir Starmer agreed recently in London.
Referring to the latest developments in the Middle East, the chancellor "welcome" the fact that the US and Iran agreed on a peace memorandum and congratulated President Trump and the Iranian side for this "diplomatic progress", while thanking Pakistan and Qatar for their mediation. "The agreement can now pave the way for the recovery of the global economy and the stabilisation of the region (...) The Straits of Hormuz must open permanently and fully for free navigation. Further negotiations over the next few weeks must ensure that Iran ends its military nuclear programme permanently and in a way that is controlled. The agreement must also apply to Lebanon. We saw yesterday how important this is," Friedrich Murch stressed and reiterated Berlin's will to continue to support and promote the relevant efforts. "We want to work with our partners to guarantee free navigation in the Straits of Hormuz. We will do so when the necessary conditions exist," he made it clear.
The chancellor also described the geopolitical situation as a "test of endurance" for the global economy and highlighted the need for G7 to develop a common strategy for "reliable trade relations" and "fair competition". We want to address the new geopolitical risks 'together, wherever possible', Mr Murch continued and stressed the importance of strengthening competitiveness, but also of cooperation on key issues such as critical raw materials and durable supply chains. "All this can make us more durable. They also stabilise international order," he appreciated.
In Evian, the German Chancellor pointed out, the further development of the G7 itself must also be discussed. He even welcomed the initiative of host Emmanuel Macron to invite leaders from India, Brazil, Korea, Gulf and African countries. Moreover, he said, it is crucial that we continue to invest in a strong European pillar of NATO, "in a transatlantic and European group spirit", an issue in which Germany plays, as he said, an important role.
But Mr Murch also praised the German-French relationship, ensuring that the two countries can jointly make difficult decisions in many areas. "In these troubled times, German-French relationship and German-French friendship are more important than ever. You know that I am personally committed to this and will remain, from a deep conviction that Germany and France are important levers for all European integration, but also for our common transatlantic relationship," he said.