Overview

• The Bundespresseamt called the weekend a success, reporting thousands of visitors despite heavy showers on Saturday and even larger crowds on Sunday.
• Friedrich Merz took audience questions at the Chancellery, while Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul held open-air conversations with guests.
• Thorsten Frei told visitors the Chancellery expansion would cost about €770 million, calling it very costly and noting it was approved under an earlier administration.
• Displays ranged from Bundeswehr vehicles at the Defense Ministry to information on the BND’s global work, alongside exhibitions, children’s programs and music.
• Merz and Klingbeil used the forum to underscore that difficult reform decisions are coming, emphasizing competitiveness and changes to the social system.