Mainz: Habeck wants to use the opportunity to exchange ideas with farmers

In view of announced protests by farmers, Federal Minister of Economics Robert Habeck signaled his willingness to talk during his visit to Mainz. “The farmers of course have concerns and needs that, in my view, go beyond the agricultural diesel discussion,” said the Green politician on Thursday after a conversation with Prime Minister Malu Dreyer (SPD) in the State Chancellery. He doesn’t know whether they can all be solved in the evening. “But if there is a chance to have a quick exchange, then I would like to take advantage of it.”

He believes in the power of conversation, and that also includes demonstrations. “Always, I have to say in advance, as long as a conversation is wanted. I recently had a different experience,” said Habeck.

The Federal Minister of Economics is visiting Rhineland-Palatinate, including at the Schott company and at the business reception. Farmers want to use the visit to protest again against the planned subsidy cuts with a large tractor convoy and a rally.

Dreyer: Change brings a lot of uncertainty

The conversation between Dreyer and Habeck was about transformation, circular economy and the conversion to climate-neutral industry, said Dreyer. “Life and work are fundamentally changing in the transformation for very, very many people, which brings a lot of uncertainty,” said Dreyer.

Habeck and she also briefly touched on the overall social situation in the conversation, said Dreyer. “You can imagine that both Mr. Habeck and I are simply pleased that so many people are currently on the streets for democracy.” The danger from the right concerns her very much, said Dreyer. Civil society must be strengthened at this point: “We have a plan for the future, and we don’t want anyone not to be able to take part in this plan, but rather that we together manage to transform the economy for a good future – also for our children.”