Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Germany to diversify its trade relations by seeking out new partners, amidst a potential trade agreement between the United States and the European Union that imposes a 15% tariff on EU products.

“How shall we proceed with global trade if, for instance, the Americans no longer adhere to the World Trade Organization’s rules?” Merz questioned during a government Open Day, an event in Berlin where the public can engage with institutions and partake in discussions.

“We ought to look for partners worldwide who align with our perspective,” Merz continued. He leads the CDU party, which currently holds a 25% approval rating, matching that of the Alternative für Deutschland, according to an INSA survey reported by Bild newspaper this weekend.

The July framework trade deal was brokered between President Trump and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

“We need good economic relations with the US, and we may have got off lightly,” said Merz, noting that trade possibilities might open up in South America, Asia and Africa, and should be of mutual benefit.

“We must consistently go down that road,” he said.

Merz also said basic questions regarding social security systems needed to be addressed by the end of the year, arguing that the government must rein in welfare spending on employment, pension and health benefits.

“We have to make our social security systems fit for the future,” he said.