During a five-day tour visiting Singapore, Tokyo, and Seoul, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz maintained that the policies of Donald Trump and Xi Jinping were the central focus of international discussions. Although neither leader was physically present, their influence was described as omnipresent throughout the Chancellor's meetings in the region.
Shortly before departing on Friday, Merz made his stance explicit while speaking in Seoul. He noted that the United States is altering its foreign economic policy and redefining its national interests. Merz stated that if Washington takes such steps, other nations must adapt their strategies accordingly to remain relevant.
The core strategic message of the trip was that middle powers must unite to counter the influence of larger and stronger nations. The commentary suggests that this approach highlights Merz's strengths as a foreign policy-focused Chancellor, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex geopolitical shifts by prioritizing alliances over individual appeasement.
Sources: Handelsblatt.