Merz Rules Out Cooperation with Far‑Right AfD, Vows to Protect Party Legacy and Keep Germany Open

Chancellor Merz reiterates refusal to cooperate with AfD

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reiterated on Saturday that his conservative bloc will not cooperate with the far‑right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Speaking to members of his party's youth movement in Rust in south‑west Germany, Merz stressed a clear break with the AfD while defending his party's postwar political tradition.

"Not because there is a firewall between us—forget that term—we are worlds apart from this party. We have nothing in common with them," Merz said.

Merz said he would not jeopardize the party's legacy, invoking the names of former chancellors Helmut Kohl and Konrad Adenauer as examples of the democratic tradition he intends to uphold. He repeated his party's long‑standing stance that collaboration with the AfD is not an option.

Immigration stance

On migration, Merz emphasized a dual approach: firmly combating irregular migration while remaining open to immigrants who want to work in Germany. He framed this as part of a pragmatic and humane policy that balances border control with the country's economic needs.

Context: Merz's comments come amid ongoing debates in Germany about how mainstream parties should respond to the growing support for the AfD. By reaffirming a distance from the AfD, Merz is signaling a commitment to established democratic norms and to protecting his party's reputation.