Coalition deal shows Germany's strength, says chancellor designate Merz

BERLIN, April 9 (Reuters) - German chancellor designate Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday that the coalition agreement his conservatives reached with the Social Democrats was a sign that Europe could rely on Germany.

The agreement "is a very strong and clear signal to the citizens of our country. And it is also a clear signal to our partners in the European Union," said Merz during a news conference with his coalition partners.

"Germany is getting a government that is capable of action and strong," said Merz, adding that he expected all parties involved to agree to the coalition deal.