Overview

• The CDU/CSU and SPD have concluded negotiations on a coalition contract, marking a critical step toward forming Germany's next federal government.
• Party leaders Friedrich Merz, Markus Söder, Saskia Esken, and Lars Klingbeil will present the agreement at a press conference in Berlin this afternoon.
• The SPD is set to oversee the Finance, Defense, and Justice Ministries, while the CDU/CSU will control the Foreign and Interior portfolios, among others.
• Government formation remains contingent on internal party approvals, including a membership referendum by the SPD and decisions by CDU/CSU leadership bodies.
• The coalition focuses on major reforms in migration, economic policy, and defense, reflecting key national challenges and priorities for the incoming administration.