Luxembourg and Germany agreed to strengthen cooperation on artificial intelligence and space technology during Prime Minister Luc Frieden's official visit to Berlin on Tuesday, while also addressing contentious border control measures.
Prime Minister Luc Frieden visited Berlin on Tuesday for talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, where he was received with military honours.
The working meeting focused on European and international affairs, as well as bilateral cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
Frieden emphasised Germany's significance to Luxembourg, describing it as "not just a neighbour and close friend, but also an important trade partner". He noted that economic developments in Germany directly impact Luxembourg's economy. The Prime Minister's visit lasted several hours before his scheduled return to Luxembourg on Tuesday afternoon.
German chancellor assures border checks only 'temporary'
The discussion addressed Germany's border controls, which affect approximately 55,000 cross-border workers commuting daily from Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland into Luxembourg. Chancellor Merz assured Frieden that the checks are "temporary" but proposed future joint inland controls conducted by German and Luxembourg police.
While acknowledging Germany's rationale for the measures in combating illegal immigration, Frieden stressed that such controls "must not undermine fundamental European principles".
The Prime Minister also called for streamlined EU administrative procedures and announced closer collaboration between Germany and Luxembourg in strategic sectors, particularly satellite technology and artificial intelligence.
