The Facts
On Monday, the governments of France and Germany began a two-day retreat to discuss energy, industry, and defense, in an attempt to re-establish relations between the two largest economies in the European Union.
Other topics set to be discussed include the war in Ukraine, the transition to a carbon-neutral economy, the rise of irregular migration, and the current Middle East conflict. The two countries are also expected to begin negotiations in 2024 concerning the construction of next-generation tanks.
The Spin
Narrative A
It is critical that the two leading member states of the European Union find common ground on a range of important issues, including energy security and global competitiveness. If Europe continues to move forward without a clear sense of direction, it will be less able to assert influence in global affairs. The first step in developing a cogent European response to current issues is a strong alliance between France and Germany.
Narrative B
The Hamburg meeting should see France and Germany conclude that Europe needs to become less dependent on the US and stay out tensions between China and the US over Taiwan. The EU cannot afford the to get caught up in crises that it isn't directly affected by, as such meddling would prevent the bloc from achieving strategic autonomy. Europe must defend its interests rather than become a vassal for the US.
