Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared the supply of diesel, petrol, and kerosene secure at the Hannover Messe opening, despite the energy crisis triggered by the Iran war. He announced a forthcoming national security council meeting. Economy Minister Katherina Reiche is inviting industry representatives for talks.
At the Hannover Messe opening on Saturday, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) described Germany's fuel supply as stable. "For the moment: The market situation is tense, but supply in Germany is secure," Merz said. He announced that "very soon in Berlin, a session of the national security council" would be convened if the situation worsens.
Economy Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) invited representatives from suppliers, airports, airlines, and associations for Monday talks on kerosene supply. IEA head Fatih Birol recently warned of jet fuel shortages in Europe from May, and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) took these warnings seriously.
Merz met Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva before the opening, with Brazil as the fair's guest country. Both emphasized closer economic ties and the EU-Mercosur agreement, provisionally entering force on May 1. Lula highlighted biofuels, which make Brazil less affected by the Iran war.
Merz advocated for Germany's appeal as an investment location despite high energy prices, taxes, and bureaucracy. Amid weak orders and pressure from China, industry is focusing on AI and robotics, as fair director Jochen Köckler noted. Over 3000 exhibitors expect more than 100,000 visitors.
