Eastern Germany's leaders unite in Berlin to tackle economic disparities and energy costs
The heads of government from Germany's five eastern states are gathering in Berlin for a key economic conference. The meeting, led by Berlin as the current president of the Conference of East German Minister-Presidents (MPK-Ost), will focus on energy policy, investment, and regional fairness. Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Economics Minister Katherina Reiche are also attending to address pressing economic challenges. Berlin took over the rotating presidency of the MPK-Ost on December 1, 2025. The conference brings together leaders from Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia, alongside Berlin's Governing Mayor Kai Wegner. Top priorities include securing lower energy prices, which have been strained since the Iran War, and ensuring a fairer share of federal special funds for infrastructure and industry.
Economics Minister Reiche stressed the need to boost the long-term competitiveness of eastern regions. She called for better conditions for businesses, stronger innovation incentives, and targeted growth measures. Chancellor Merz aims to finalise concrete agreements that will shape Germany's economic future. The agenda also covers expanding long-haul flights at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) and improving transport links, such as rail connections to Poland. Minister-President Manuela Schwesig of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania welcomed the high-level participation, highlighting discussions on fuel prices and economic stability. Over the past two years, eastern states have pushed for equal distribution of company headquarters, fairer infrastructure funding, and reliable energy supplies.
The conference seeks to address long-standing economic disparities between eastern and western Germany. Decisions made during the meeting could influence federal funding, energy costs, and regional development policies. Leaders are expected to outline specific steps to strengthen eastern Germany's economic position in the coming years.
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