Illegal immigration debate in Germany leaves its mark on coalition talks: Will the CDU not join the government?

Following the elections in Germany, the Christian Union parties (CDU/CSU), which began talks with the Social Democratic Party (SPD) as part of efforts to form a government, have experienced a disagreement over illegal immigrants. The CDU/CSU's chancellor candidate, Friedrich Merz, promised during the election campaign to prevent illegal immigration and increase border controls.

The new leader of the SPD, Lars Klingbeil, stated in an interview on ARD television that it is not possible for Germany to close its borders, saying, 'As the strongest country in Europe, we cannot close our borders.' Addressing the lifting of the debt brake during the talks with the CDU/CSU, Klingbeil emphasized that they would not allow Germany to be isolated.

There was a harsh reaction to these statements from the CDU/CSU front. The head of the party's youth organization, Johannes Winkel, described Klingbeil's opposition to closing the borders as irresponsible.

Winkel opposed the SPD's stance and used the following expressions:

'If there is no change in illegal immigration policies, the CDU will not join the government. Our people do not want prosperity to be distributed to everyone.'

These developments indicate that the process of forming a government in Germany will be difficult. The outcome of the talks between the CDU/CSU and the SPD is awaited with curiosity.

News Source: 12punto