In view of the steady decline in new infections with the simultaneous spread of highly contagious virus mutants, Merkel cautioned: “We must not take what we have achieved together, risk lightly.” In her opening remarks, she described vaccinations as the key to overcoming the pandemic. Around half of the people in Germany are now vaccinated once and a third are fully vaccinated. The Chancellor appealed to citizens to continue to wear masks for their protection and to keep their distance.
Focus on economic growth
After the pandemic, the “main focus” must be directed to economic growth, demanded Merkel. The positive growth forecasts made them confident. She also named economic growth, employment and good wages as prerequisites for the sustainability of the pension system. At the same time, she spoke out in favor of company and private pension schemes as a supplement to the statutory pension. Low-wage earners should be offered an additional product of private pension provision. “Extending my working life is not on my agenda,” she emphasized.
Climate protection: time is of the essence
Regarding climate protection, Merkel said: “Time is of the essence.” Although the EU-led governments and the EU have initiated a great deal to curb greenhouse gases and have forged international alliances, “given the objective situation, it is not enough.” Germany wants to be the first industrialized country to be climate neutral in 2045. To achieve this, greenhouse gas emissions are to be reduced by 65 percent by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.
The proportion of women in the Bundestag must increase
The Chancellor said she was “absolutely not satisfied” with the proportion of women among the members of the Bundestag. However, the problem cannot be solved by drawing up equal voting lists alone, she said. For example, in the Union parliamentary group, most of the members of parliament have entered parliament through direct mandate. Even if the solution is therefore not easy: You will only be satisfied when the ratio of female and male MPs is 50:50.
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