Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s CDU, praises a new economic paper from Finance Minister Christian Lindner, claiming it echoes Union proposals. Merz argues for consensus on economic reforms, but reactions from coalition partners SPD and Greens have been lukewarm. Lindner’s paper calls for significant policy changes, including a halt to new regulations and the removal of the solidarity surcharge. As infighting escalates, Chancellor Olaf Scholz plans urgent discussions with Lindner and Minister Robert Habeck to address a looming budget crisis and economic challenges, aiming to stabilize the coalition ahead of an upcoming meeting.