Europe
Merz Sets Crisis Talks to Tackle Energy Price Impact on Germany
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivers a speech during the opening gala of the Hanover industrial trade fair in Hanover, Germany on April 19.
Photographer: Ronny Hartmann/AFP/Getty ImagesChancellor Friedrich Merz said he plans to convene Germany’s national security council to discuss the global energy crisis, signaling increased concern about its impact on Europe’s biggest economy.
“We will convene a meeting of the National Security Council in Berlin very shortly,” Merz said in a speech at the Hannover Messe trade show Sunday, which he attended with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The council is empowered to take immediate action to ensure Germany’s energy security if needed, Merz said.