Germany politics

Germany politics

Members of Germany's Bundestag will convene on Wednesday for their first plenary session following the summer recess. To open proceedings, Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius (SPD) and Federal Minister of Health Nina Warken (CDU) will answer questions from members of the German parliament. Their two ministries are responsible for major federal government projects. Pistorius is leading efforts to strengthen the Bundeswehr, while Warken is tasked with reforming hospitals, health insurance companies, and nursing care.

Like many other NATO and EU members, Germany is ramping up arms production to help Ukraine fight Russia's full-scale invasion in the short term and develop the capabilities necessary to counter any future threats to its security. In pursuit of those aims, Dusseldorf-based defense contractor Rheinmetall on Wednesday opened an arms and explosives manufacturing plant in the German state of Lower Saxony, the largest munitions factory in Europe.

More than half of leading German politicians' work vehicles exceed EU targets for average CO2 emissions, reflecting a broader issue in the auto sector's climate protection efforts.

Pakistan's authorities detained several Afghan refugees in Islamabad, including individuals approved for relocation to Germany. The group includes former local staff and others at risk after the Taliban takeover.

Protesters hoped for real change after 15 years of undemocratic governance, but political instability looms as groups jostle for power and reforms falter.