Dialogos

Discussion on Two-Speed EU Launched in Berlin

Published January 28, 2026, 15:02
Discussion on Two-Speed EU Launched in Berlin

During the Welt newspaper's Economic Summit in Berlin, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck initiated a discussion on a two-speed European Union. Scholz emphasized the need for Europe to become a strong political force with economic and military influence, calling for enhanced forms of cooperation to achieve these goals. Habeck argued that “the time has come for a two-speed Europe,” proposing that Germany move forward with France and other partners to strengthen Europe and make it more independent. He stressed the criticality of the current international situation and the need to maintain optimism for solving problems. Germany and France have taken the initiative to establish a group of countries (E6) – Germany, France, Poland, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands – with the aim of enhancing Europe's competitiveness. This group will hold its first meeting via video conference to explore ways to accelerate and strengthen European measures. According to the German Ministry of Finance, the E6 will focus on strengthening Europe's economic resilience in an increasingly unstable geopolitical environment. This discussion marks an effort towards a more flexible and effective European Union, capable of responding to the challenges of the 21st century.