Merz fails to weigh Bas' criticizing remarks equitably. - Merz abstains from rating Bas's derogatory remark alongside achievements of renown
In a series of statements made at various state party conferences, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has emphasized the necessity of extensive reforms to the social security system, as agreed upon in the coalition agreement.
During his official visit to the North Rhine-Westphalian state government in Münster, Merz reiterated his stance that the current social state is not financially sustainable with current economic achievements. He noted that these reforms are not unnecessary, but rather overdue for many years.
At a CDU state party conference in Lower Saxony, Merz specifically mentioned the need to speak more drastically when addressing the Jusos, in response to Baerbel Bas' sharp language. This response was in reference to Bas' comment about the financial sustainability of social security systems, which she called "bullshit" during a state conference of the NRW Jusos in Gelsenkirchen.
Chancellor Merz, however, took Bas' comment about potential social cuts lightly, and during his visit to Münster, he reiterated that these discussions will take place in a good and respectful atmosphere.
The federal government, according to the coalition agreement, proposed to have a commission develop concepts for comprehensive reforms of the pension insurance system. Comprehensive reforms of the social insurance systems have been discussed but not yet fully implemented by the governing coalition (Union and SPD). The federal cabinet will decide on these social security system reforms.
Merz made it clear that he sees the need for these reforms, stating that "We cannot continue as before. We have to do it differently." Discussions on these topics will take place in the coalition committee on Wednesday.
In response to Merz's call for more drastic discussions, Bas did not back down, reiterating her stance during the NRW Jusos conference. The debate about the financial sustainability of social security systems and the need for reforms is expected to continue in the coming weeks.
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