FDP leader Christian Lindner recently appeared on WELT TALK, where he discussed various issues such as social welfare, defense spending, and the state of the economy. Lindner criticized EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for not adhering to the CDU’s election program and for her support of a ban on combustion engines and shared EU debts. He also warned against voting for the AfD, stating that their policies would isolate Germany politically and ruin it economically. Instead, Lindner suggested that bürgerlich voters, who value freedom and a European outlook, consider voting for the FDP in the upcoming European Parliament elections.
In terms of domestic policies, Lindner emphasized the need to increase employment in order to reduce social welfare expenditures. He clarified that the proposed Bürgergeld is not a universal basic income but rather a form of solidarity, and he called for a critical review of Germany’s current development aid policies. Lindner also highlighted the importance of investing in the Bundeswehr and meeting NATO’s two percent spending target. Regarding retirement, he stressed the need for further reforms to ensure sustainable pension funding and expand private retirement savings options beyond the Riester pension.
During the interview, Lindner also addressed recent incidents of racism and extremism in Germany, notably referencing a party on Sylt where attendees were caught singing a racist song. He condemned such behavior as xenophobic and called it a wake-up call for society. Lindner urged individuals to speak out against extremism in all its forms, whether it be racism, anti-Semitism, or other forms of discrimination. He emphasized the importance of defending freedom against all threats, including extremism from both the left and right, as well as from Islamism.
Furthermore, Lindner expressed his firm stance against anti-Semitism and emphasized the need for Germans to be vigilant in combating any form of discrimination or hatred. He stressed the importance of upholding freedom in all aspects, whether it be on the streets or in academic settings. Lindner also addressed the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, advocating for a distinction between the Palestinian people and the terrorist activities of Hamas. He reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to a two-state solution in the region and expressed support for both sides in achieving peace. Lindner also questioned the decision of some countries to unilaterally recognize Palestine as a state.
