Merz's inaugural visit to Schwerin: Focus on economy and cooperation!

Merz's inaugural visit to Schwerin: Focus on economy and cooperation!

On November 4, 2025, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania will be marked by a special visit: Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) will come to the state for his inaugural visit. He is the third chancellor to visit the eastern German region after Brandenburg and Saxony. The focus of his stay will be the economy and jobs, a highly topical concern given the challenges facing the region.

Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig (SPD) makes it clear how important close cooperation between the federal and state governments is. She emphasizes that additional support from the federal government is urgently needed, especially for the economically important ports in the north and for cheaper electricity prices. As part of his visit, Merz will take part in a cabinet meeting and then visit the medical technology company Ypsomed in Schwerin, which is planning a factory expansion. There are different expectations of the Chancellor, depending on his political orientation.

Different expectations on the inaugural visit

The different positions of the political actors in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania are clear: While the DGB Nord focuses on EU funding and maintaining the welfare state, the CDU is calling for a comprehensive relief program for small and medium-sized companies and a reduction in bureaucracy. On the other hand, the Greens advocate more financial support for municipalities in order to strengthen their trust in politics. The AfD also criticizes the political discussion: its parliamentary group leader Nikolaus Kramer expresses skepticism about Merz's problem-solving abilities.

In view of the upcoming state elections on September 20, 2026, the various parties are calling for their own reforms and not to wait for the federal government's resources alone. Daniel Peters, the CDU state leader, warns Schwesig against excessive expectations of the federal government and instead calls for measures to strengthen the regional economy.

The Chancellor in focus

Many people interpret Merz's visit as an opportunity to make concrete progress for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The DGB Nord warns not to underestimate the importance of EU funding for economically weak regions. A point that is also supported by Prime Minister Schwesig, who advocates maintaining the current funding system.

The meeting between Merz and the state government is also accompanied by a certain level of discontent within the CDU. The CompassMitte initiative expresses concerns about the Chancellor and his agenda. The situation could be crucial for the CDU's future in the country, especially at a time when the party is fighting for its electorate.

Looking ahead to the coming days, Merz is also visiting the Hanseatic barracks and has already planned a breakfast with CDU state leader Peters before the official appointments begin. Also in connection with this trip, the CDU state parliamentary group will celebrate its 35th anniversary on Tuesday evening; However, Merz will not be present as a guest of honor.

Overall, Merz’s inaugural visit to Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania promises to be an exciting chapter in the country’s political landscape. But whether his measures meet the ideas and requirements of politicians and the population remains to be seen.