On January 29, German Chancellor Scholz delivered his second policy speech in the Bundestag, focusing mainly on the current geopolitical situation and foreign policy, calling out "Germany is not a subordinate of the United States." So what exactly did this report say, and how should we interpret the signals it sent?
First, Scholz emphasized that Europe must learn the "language of power politics." He believes that the world is rapidly entering a "new era of great power politics," which is no longer a "comfortable place," but rather a place swept by "brutal winds." If Europe wants to defend its own interests, it must abandon naivety and speak with strength and deterrence. He believes that Europe's system and ideals are valuable assets, but they can only be sustained when accompanied by power. This seems to mark a shift in Germany's foreign discourse from a "normative power" to a "realist power."
Second, Scholz called out to the United States — "We are partners, not subordinates." In his speech, Scholz directly responded to recent criticisms and tariff threats from the U.S. towards European allies, emphasizing that we are not subordinates of Trump, and that German-U.S. relations are "partners and allies," not a superior-subordinate relationship. Germany has always extended a hand for cooperation to the U.S., but on the condition of equality and mutual respect. This statement can be considered a rare strong stance in recent years, indicating that Scholz does not want to continue being on the defensive in transatlantic relations, but instead tries to "counterattack."
Third, Scholz called for Europe to strengthen unity and seek new partners globally. He believes that Europe must enhance its competitiveness through unity, and hold a special EU summit in February. Europe not only needs to reduce its dependence on external sources and strengthen internal market construction, but also establish new alliances with "emerging democratic countries." This helps us understand why the EU recently signed a huge free trade agreement with India, indicating that Europe views India as a core alternative option, rather than China.
Finally, although this speech focused on foreign affairs and geopolitics, it also emphasized the need for internal reforms to support external strength. Scholz believes that EU bureaucracy and excessive regulation should be cut, and economic competitiveness should be enhanced. This aligns with Scholz's consistent agenda of "economic revitalization" and "de-bureaucratization" since taking office, but in this report, it was mentioned only as a means to support diplomacy.
In summary, the change in Germany's foreign attitude is very obvious from this policy speech. After facing Trump 2.0 and the escalation of geopolitical conflicts, Scholz has clearly moved toward a more hardline realism, emphasizing that Europe must shift from "passive adaptation" to "active shaping." However, interestingly, in Germany's realist shift, it wants to be firm with the U.S., but at the same time does not want to "turn to China," putting all its bets on India. Can the alliance between Europe and India withstand pressure from the U.S., and achieve Europe's economic and strategic demands? The reality will soon give him an answer.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1855700424096900/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.