Overview

• Eastern German state premiers have issued a joint position paper during coalition talks, emphasizing the need for targeted federal support to address regional disparities.
• Key demands include financial aid, prioritization of infrastructure investment, and federal responsibility for addressing legacy municipal debts.
• The leaders advocate for the continuation of the Commissioner for Eastern Germany role with cabinet rank and the inclusion of eastern Germans in the federal cabinet.
• Proposals also call for reducing bureaucratic burdens, protecting local industries from European-level competition distortions, and recruiting skilled workers from abroad.
• The demands coincide with the 35th anniversary of German reunification, with leaders warning of a political turning point and the need to restore public trust in government effectiveness.