America News Agency

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its sister party CSU secured 28.6% of the vote in the elections, making them the leading party.

The party is now entering government negotiations with the Social Democratic SPD, which received 16.4% of the votes. Together, the two parties can secure a majority in the Bundestag.

CDU party leader Friedrich Merz, who is a strong candidate for Germany’s next chancellor, said in a press conference on Monday, "We will start discussions in the coming days."

Merz mentioned that the talks will address security policy, migration, and economic matters. He expressed his hope that the government could be formed before Easter.

According to the SPD, a decision on forming a coalition government has not yet been finalized, but it is expected to be made in the coming weeks and months.

Initial estimates indicate a voter turnout of 82.5%, the highest since 1987.

The election results are expected to have a significant impact on Germany’s future politics and its role in Europe. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas expressed hope for a swift government formation.

"The German people have made their choice, and now a government must be formed. I hope they do it as soon as possible because we also need to move forward with European-level decisions that require Germany’s participation," Kallas said on Monday.

It is said that the election results bring relief to many across Europe.