#Merkel spoke about the EU's response to #COVID19 & the priorities of the German Council Presidency this weekend. There were a few surprises. Could this potentially mean shift in German European policy after years of stagnation? Short THREAD https://www.bundeskanzlerin.de/bkin-de/mediathek/europa-coronavirus-gebaerde-1747066!mediathek

1/ The focus on European solidarity and cohesion could not be clearer & is a shift from a rather silent Germany beforehand: "Germany cannot be strong if others are not doing well"; "Some countries fear to be weakened from this crisis, while Germany is relatively well-off".

2/ While the German gov has always declared itself pro-EU integration, the clear words "we need more Europe" & "Europe should grow together during this crisis" takes another dimension in the current crisis.

3/ While I wasn't expecting much from the Council Presidency, #Merkel announces rather important shifts in policy: Increased #MFF contribution; but also continued focus on #climate, #digital & #strategicautonomy - which could mean a comprehensive view on crisis management.

4/ Most surprising: #Merkel mentions potential EU reform in healthcare (more competences for ?); env. #taxes & even financial transaction tax. While it will be difficult to find compromise, it is a rather welcome development to see that shows more willingness to act.

*a shift!