Bundesminister Robert Habeck trifft EU-Wirtschaftskommissar Gentilon

BMWK / Andreas Mertens

Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action Robert Habeck met with EU Economy Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni today. They discussed issues including the establishment of green technologies and Europe’s role as a strong economic base.

After the talks, Federal Minister Habeck said: "Establishing a green economy in Europe is essential for three reasons: firstly, it is essential to become climate-neutral. Secondly, we must make the EU more attractive as a place for investment and innovation, and thirdly, this is the only way to remain competitive. This is also important in view of the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act. I regard it as a spur for Europe to make every effort to become faster and better when it comes to promoting green technologies. A green industry, supported by both SMEs and large companies, should also be flourishing in the EU so that forward-looking jobs will be created and prosperity will be generated in Europe. The tools should be targeted towards this objective. The European Commission also knows how urgently we need to act. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made this clear in her speech in Davos, and we can build on this. It is good that the Commission will present its analysis of the situation and its plan for a green European industrial policy tomorrow. On the basis of the Communication from the Commission, we will find common solutions with our European partners in the coming weeks. It is already foreseeable that we need to make essential improvements especially with regard to the State aid rules. Germany will play a constructive role in the debate. In this context, it is important to explore possibilities for a common strong response rather than to talk about what is not possible. It is in the interest of Germany to remain a competitive industrial base. And this is possible only in a strong and united Europe."