Merkel and Blair said they want to make every effort to ensure that the right measures are taken to address climate change. They consider this to be a challenge of major proportions and one that all of mankind will have to work together to deal with.
Climate change
The German EU Presidency is making energy issues a priority topic at the EU's spring summit. One objective is to improve competitive structures on the European energy market.
Merkel indicated the need to make changes in the energy sector in light of climate change. This includes the definition of ambitious targets for reductions of CO2 emissions as well as for the expanded use of renewables in Europe.
Merkel and Blair also want to present an ambitious energy-related agenda at the G8 summit in Heiligendamm this summer. They agreed to hold a preparatory conference in May to discuss matters of joint concern in the G8 framework.
The latter include reduction targets, technology transfer to the emerging countries, and international systems of emissions trading. Merkel indicated that in her view limiting global warming to an average of two degrees centigrade is a good target and that policy decisions could be made on this basis at the G8 summit.
Blair stressed that climate change is very much on the agenda and reaffirmed British support for Germany's efforts in this area in the EU and G8 frameworks.
Climate change was one of the main topics at the G8 summit in Gleneagles, Scotland in 2005. At the time Blair stated that climate change is "probably, long-term the single most important issue we face as a global community". In that context the G8 signed a plan of action to address climate change, clean energy, and sustainable development.
Strengthening Lisbon Process
Merkel said the German EU Presidency wants use the European Council in March to undertake an assessment of what measures will lead to more growth and jobs in Europe.
She indicated that the European Council will also focus on energy issues and better legislation.
"I hope we will be able to formulate clear targets with regard to bureaucracy reduction," Merkel said. Blair indicated that he strongly supports these efforts, stressing that they will have a positive effect on efficiency in the EU.
Middle East peace process
Merkel and Blair welcomed the fact that the Middle East Quartet will be meeting again next week. They said the steps being taken in the region are steps in the right direction. They added that they will work together to promote the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians.
Agreement with North Korea
Merkel and Blair described the agreement reached in the nuclear dispute with North Korea as progress, although it remains to be seen to what extent this will be lasting progress. But it is an example of how joint action and the formulation of common principles can lead to success, Merkel noted.
