The eurozone’s problem country: Germany

The pandemic has widened Europe’s economic divide.

 
BERLIN — For Europe’s most austere leader, it was a rare flash of emotion.

Pressed during a news conference about what more she would do to help Italy and Spain cope with the fallout from the coronavirus ­­— a question she had been fielding from Rome and Madrid for weeks — Angela Merkel insisted Germany is already helping and would continue to do so.

“Europe’s well-being isn’t just a question of solidarity, it’s a matter of self-interest,” Merkel said. “That’s why it almost hurts to have to repeat myself. For me it goes without saying.”

The German chancellor’s indignance over suggestions her commitment to the “European project” is anything less than absolute reflects the growing disconnect the coronavirus has created in Europe. As leaders in Germany and other northern countries insist they will do everything they can to safeguard the EU, their counterparts in the south demand much more.

With the pandemic ravaging economies across the Continent, many in Europe want to believe Merkel will act. But should they? So far, Berlin has offered distressed countries little more than encouragement. Many are hoping Germany, which has so far weathered the crisis better than most, will agree to open its purse during a videoconference summit of EU leaders on Thursday.

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Πηγή: politico.eu