Wadephul: shared basis between the US and Europe
German foreign minister sees Rubio speech as a “good start”, but rejects further US demands of Europe.
Munich (dpa, d.de) – Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul described the speech by his US counterpart Marco Rubio in Munich as a “good start” for future constructive talks. Speaking about Rubio himself, he said: “We know he’s a genuine partner.” Referring to Rubio’s remarks on Europe’s shared history, the minister added: “And of course we have a shared basis.”
Wadephul took note of Rubio’s appeal to Europeans to reflect on their own strength, but also stressed that they were already on a good path in this regard. Europe had resolved of its own accord to ensure greater competitiveness and strength, said the German foreign minister to journalists on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. “We don’t need any further prompting from outside to do that.”
He added that the issue of illegal migration was also being addressed, and that the German federal government was ready for talks with the US side on this matter. From critical minerals and cyberattacks through to the Russian threat and China – there were many shared challenges, said Wadephul, adding that these should be tackled jointly. “If this spirit of cooperation prevails in future, then I am very confident that we will return to our former unity.”
