Berlin: On Monday, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called for a sovereign Europe and for fundamental reforms to the European single market, which he described as having evolved into a bureaucratic monster.

According to Qatar News Agency, Merz emphasized the need for Europe to become more self-reliant, stating that it can no longer depend on the United States for defense, China for raw materials, or Russia for maintaining peace. His remarks were delivered during a forum organized by Suddeutsche Zeitung.

The timing of Merz's comments is significant, as they precede a summit in Berlin where he, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, will advocate for enhanced European digital sovereignty. The summit will also address the necessity of reducing Europe's dependence on major American tech companies.