CDU and SPD Conclude First Phase of Coalition Talks, Disagreements Persist

Key differences on migration, taxation, and social policy remain unresolved as negotiations shift to high-level discussions.

The CDU and SPD have completed the initial phase of coalition negotiations, with 17 working groups submitting their findings by the March 24 deadline.
Major unresolved issues include migration policy, taxation reforms, and social policy, with both parties holding divergent views.
CDU leader Friedrich Merz has rejected the term 'GroKo' for the coalition, suggesting alternative names like 'schwarz-rote Arbeitskoalition.'
Discussions on reforming the debt brake face hurdles, with CDU's Daniel Günther advocating talks with The Left Party to secure a two-thirds majority for constitutional amendments.
Leaders from both parties emphasize the importance of thorough negotiations over adhering to strict timelines, with a goal to finalize agreements by Easter.