German Chancellor Friedrich Merz advocates for European technological sovereignty

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is calling for increased European technological sovereignty to reduce the continent's dependence on foreign powers. During a visit to the Leibniz Institute for Innovative Microelectronics (Leibniz-IHP), Merz expressed confidence in Europe's ability to achieve scientific autonomy, citing advanced German microelectronics research as a key example of this progress.

These efforts are part of the German government's ‘high-tech agenda,’ a strategic initiative designed to stimulate economic growth and job creation. The agenda prioritizes investments in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and microelectronics. The accompanying microelectronics plan aims to boost investment in production facilities, support specialized personnel, and accelerate the transition of research from laboratories to industrial applications.