Eastern states want to ramp up their defense efforts

The eastern German states want to play a greater role in security and defense—but are calling on the federal government to provide better transportation links. “Massive investments will be made here in the coming years,” said Berlin’s Governing Mayor Kai Wegner (CDU) after a special conference of the eastern state premiers at BER Airport. “Here, too, there must be development for all of Germany.” The leaders of the eastern states are also pushing for an expansion of drone testing centers.

The heads of the eastern state governments are demanding more long-haul connections from the capital’s airport. “This BER is the gateway to the world for East Germany,” said Wegner. Economic development is also shaped by BER. However, there is a preference for the airports in Frankfurt/Main and Munich.

Woidke accuses the federal government of protectionism

Brandenburg’s Minister President Dietmar Woidke (SPD) spoke of discrimination and protectionism. “Every region must be given fair and equal opportunities,” said Woidke. He considers the expansion of the Ostbahn toward Poland long overdue. The route between Berlin and Küstrin-Kietz, which continues toward Poland, is not electrified and is partly single-track on the German side.

The heads of government from the eastern states met on the sidelines of the International Aerospace Exhibition Berlin (ILA Berlin) at the capital’s airport. The ILA showcases new products and innovations in the fields of aviation, aerospace, and defense.