Will the German election alter European policy?
Christoph Hasselbach, Deutsche Welle, 24.09.2013
Quotes
With their vote, Germans have confirmed Chancellor Merkel's European policy. But there could be some changes. […]
One thing is certain: Angela Merkel was the most important leadership figure in the Brussels arena even before the German federal elections. And her position now is even stronger following her election victory.
Often against fierce opposition, she has sworn support in return for reform to overcome the crisis in Europe. And the many Germans who voted for her have sent a powerful signal that they agree, according to Janis Emmanouilidis from the Brussels think tank European Policy Centre.
Decisions on hold
“The basic course - we need to consolidate and reform and provide support in return for change - is not going to change,” Emmanouilidis told Deutsche Welle. Many decisions in Brussels had been put on hold until after the German elections, including whether Greece should be given more time to pay off its loans. The elections are no longer an excuse not to take action. […]
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