On May 15, 2026, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered a speech in Aachen where he reaffirmed his opposition to a 'Draghi-style' common debt proposal. This stance comes in light of Mario Draghi's acceptance speech for the Charlemagne Prize.
Merz's comments highlight a significant division in perspectives on how to bolster European competitiveness through financial measures.
The debate over joint debt issuance continues to be a contentious issue within European political circles, with various leaders advocating differing approaches.