Kretschmer: Talking to the SPD on an equal footing

Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer (CDU) sees a good basis for negotiations on a new CDU/CSU-led federal government. "It comes down to CDU, CSU and SPD", he said on the sidelines of meetings of the CDU's top committees in Berlin. These are three parties that have always been the ones to overcome major crises in the history of the Federal Republic. "The most important thing is that we talk to each other as equals, that we don't make any predetermined decisions or red lines, that we don't overburden each other."

Kretschmer said of the election results: "I think the Germans have given democracy another chance." It was noticeable how many had turned away, were worried or had doubts. There is an opportunity to justify and regain trust. "But you need to take really powerful action." The election campaign is now over.

When asked about the SPD leader and designated SPD parliamentary group leader Lars Klingbeil, Kretschmer said: "Lars Klingbeil is someone we have known and valued for many years and with whom there is definitely a basis of trust."

The CDU/CSU was clearly the strongest force in the federal election, but is dependent on a coalition partner. A government with the SPD is mathematically possible, while the CDU has ruled out working with the AfD.