Germany publishes first national security strategy in history

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (right) and the national security strategy document

Reuters reported on June 14 that Germany had published its first national security strategy, which considered Russia as the "biggest threat" to Europe, and warned of increasing confrontation with China, saying that Beijing was seeking to use economic power to achieve political goals.

The document provides an overview of Berlin's foreign policy, which has shifted to prioritizing security over economic interests in the nearly year and a half since Russia launched its military campaign in Ukraine.

Introducing the strategy, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that a major change is being made in the way security policy is addressed, moving from a purely military strategy to an integrated security concept.

The document also addresses threats from climate change to supply chain disruptions.

In addition, Germany pledged to spend 2% of GDP on defense "on average over a period of many years." At a press conference introducing the strategy, German Finance Minister Christian Lindner said the country aims to reach 2% defense spending from next year.

Other measures in the strategy include reducing dependence on other countries for commodities and encouraging companies to hold strategic reserves, after Germany's overreliance on Russian energy caused an energy crisis last year.

In addition, Chancellor Scholz said a detailed strategy on China would be completed soon, according to Reuters, reflecting Germany's tougher stance towards its top trading partner.

China and Russia did not immediately comment on the strategy.

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