September 27, 2009
An FDP impulse on Germany’s European policy under a likely centre-right coalition?
by Daniela Schwarzer
The probable junior partner in Germany’s new coalition, the liberal FDP, on Sunday reached a historically strong result with around 14.6 percent (estimate of 11:54 p.m.) of the votes. For the first time in eleven years, it is set to join the federal government. Given its strong result, FDP chairman Guido Westerwelle will reach out for key portfolios in the upcoming coalition negotiations, including some which play a role in key matters of Germany’s European affairs. Traditionally, the smaller coalition partner in the German government takes the Foreign Ministry. The FDP chairman is hence seen as the most likely candidate for the post of the foreign minister and was actively promoted by senior FDP party figures on election night.