Chancellor Olaf Scholz has contradicted the criticism of the President of the Federation of German Industries (BDI), Siegfried Russwurm, of “two lost years” by the traffic light coalition. Rather, it was a matter of “two turnaround years,” said Scholz on Sunday evening at the opening of the Hanover Trade Fair – and mentioned the BDI President who was present by name. This had in an interview with the South German newspaper caused a debate with harsh criticism of Scholz personally.
“Let us make Germany strong as a business location and not talk weak,” said the Chancellor. Scholz admitted that the past two years had been difficult because the traffic light government had to make a whole series of decisions to transform the economy towards a climate-neutral economy.
Scholz hopes that the Hanover Fair will provide new impetus for the energy transition and for strengthening the competitiveness of German industry. There has recently been criticism of high energy prices and too much bureaucracy in the economy. From the industry’s perspective, this jeopardizes the attractiveness of the location, especially in comparison to international competition such as the USA. Scholz emphasized: “A modern supply policy naturally also means that we are becoming faster and simpler. We completely agree on that.”
BDI President Russwurm did not repeat the criticism of the traffic light government in his speech. He emphasized that Germany needs more partnerships, open markets and global economic networking. “Protectionism, autarky and decoupling are the wrong approach,” he said.
Around 4,000 exhibitors will be showing their new products at the Hanover exhibition center from Monday. The focus is on artificial intelligence, climate-friendly production, solutions for the energy transition and hydrogen as an energy source. Exhibitors from 60 countries are there. This year’s partner country is Norway.