German and French leaders met for the first time since the outbreak reiterated support for the EU economic recovery plan

　　China News Agency, Berlin, June 30 (Reporter Peng Dawei) German Chancellor Angela Merkel met with visiting French President Macron at the Messeberg Palace State Hotel north of Berlin on the 29th. This is the first time that leaders of Germany and France have met face-to-face since the outbreak of the new crown epidemic in Europe. Both sides reiterated their support for the 750 billion euro economic recovery plan proposed by the European Commission that day.

Data map: German Chancellor Angela Merkel. China News Service reporter Peng Dawei

　　In May this year, Merkel and Macron jointly proposed the establishment of an aid fund totaling 500 billion euros to bail out the European economy. Subsequently, on the basis of the German-French proposal, the European Commission President Von Delaine further launched an economic recovery plan totaling 750 billion euros, of which 500 billion euros were for free appropriation and 250 billion euros for borrowing. This fund will be linked to the EU’s long-term budget for the next 7 years.

　　Germany will take over the EU presidency on July 1. In a press release published by the German Chancellery that day, German and French leaders focused on Europe’s economic recovery in the post-epidemic period. The unity of Germany and France on the economic recovery plan will inject positive momentum into the entire EU.

　　According to a German television report, Austria, the Netherlands, Sweden and Denmark, which are also members of the European Union, are opposed to the implementation of 500 billion euros of free appropriation.

Data map: French President Macron. China News Service reporter Li Yangshe

　　Merkel also admitted frankly at the press conference with Macron that day, the economic recovery plan is still facing a considerable degree of resistance. She pointed out that there will of course be changes to this plan, and all parties must start discussions. But she also emphasized that this fund must be able to really help countries that "will face a more severe epidemic if they don't get financial help." If not, the EU's cohesion will become a problem.

　　Macron urged all EU member states to work together to reach an agreement on the economic recovery plan in July this year, "This is our highest priority." He said that the focus is on this fund to be able to demonstrate the effectiveness of economic recovery. The core of this fund is that the free grants provided to member countries can support those countries that are particularly affected by the new crown epidemic, while borrowing “just raises debts and improves finances. The effect of the situation is meager."

　　The German Chancellery stated that Macron is the first foreign leader to visit Germany since the outbreak of the New Crown Outbreak. It is reported that since mid-March till now, Merkel has not visited any more, and held talks with foreign dignitaries through video and telephone conferences. (Finish)