Kretschmann in Strasbourg: Strong together in the heart of Europe!

Kretschmann in Strasbourg: Strong together in the heart of Europe!

Prime Minister Winfried Kretschmann is currently causing a sensation in Strasbourg. On his three-day trip he strongly advocates for more intensive cooperation between Germany and France. “Only together will we be able to survive in global competition,” says Kretschmann. He emphasizes how important this cooperation is for the fate of Europe.

A visit to the European Center for Quantum Research at the University of Strasbourg is also on the program. Kretschmann emphasizes the role of research and innovation in overcoming the challenges of our time. During his 15 years in office, the Prime Minister visited Switzerland ten times and France nine times, which illustrates the importance of these neighboring countries for Baden-Württemberg.

Economy and cross-border commuters

France is not only a central partner for Baden-Württemberg, but also an important trading partner. In 2024, France imported goods worth almost 18 billion euros from the federal state. The border with France stretches for around 180 kilometers, making it the longest in Baden-Württemberg. Around 60,000 people commute from the German state to Switzerland every day - a sign of the close integration of the two countries.

Kretschmann emphasizes the need to organize cross-border cooperation efficiently. The conversations during his trip should not only address economic topics, but also cultural aspects. The visit to the Hartmannswillerkopf memorial symbolizes the historical dimension of the relationship between Germany and France.

Historical connections

German-French relations have an eventful history, marked by conflicts and reconciliation. After the Second World War, the feudal rivalry, also known as “German-French hereditary enmity,” was overcome. Today both countries are seen as the driving force of European integration, even if there are remaining differences in foreign and security policy. The Élysée Treaty of 1963 and the Aachen Treaty of 2019 are milestones that institutionally consolidate cooperation.

Kretschmann is using his visit to further promote cultural and industrial synergies. He also talks about current topics such as the defense industry, aerospace and their connections to artificial intelligence and quantum research.

It remains to be seen whether this will be Kretschmann's last trip as head of government in this form. He has already announced that he will no longer run in the state elections in March 2026. Nevertheless, his commitment to Franco-German relations and European cooperation will go down in the history books.

For many people in the region, the developments from Kretschmann's trip are of great importance. “There’s something going on here,” one could say, because the close proximity between Germany and France is reflected not only in the economy, but also in the everyday lives of the citizens. The connections that need to be strengthened are complex and reach deep into the past.

For more information about the historical development of Franco-German relations, please visit the article on Wikipedia.