RTL Today – Interview with the Prime Minister: Luc Frieden presents the government’s plans, wage indexation will remain unchanged

Frieden admitted that his government is just beginning its mission and faces serious responsibilities and challenges. Although he promised no “revolutions”, he noted that some issues should be resolved differently than under the previous coalition.

Debate on pension system ‘long overdue’

The Prime Minister stressed the importance of maintaining unity in Luxembourg’s complex society, advocating centrist policies and opposing “political extremes”. He assured the audience that the government had clear plans and was actively working on them.

Frieden stressed the need for a long-overdue debate on the pension system, acknowledging the challenges it faces and the need to discuss all topics openly. He stressed the importance of including younger generations in these discussions to ensure their long-term security, arguing that the tripartite model alone is not enough.

Economy: “We’re not where we need to be”

On the economy, Frieden admitted that “we are not where we need to be”, emphasizing the need for economic growth to remain competitive with neighboring countries. He expressed his desire to create an attractive local economy and plans to further develop the financial sector as a key pillar of the Luxembourg economic model. This includes improving conditions for businesses through administrative improvements.

Frieden said the main goals are job creation and economic growth. At the same time, he reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strong social policy and “pragmatic” climate policy.

Prime Minister Luc Frieden emphasized that the wage indexation system will remain unchanged. He said that in the event of another crisis, potential actions could be discussed, as was the case previously.

The Prime Minister rules out reconsidering electoral rights for foreigners

Frieden noted that new working models will be discussed in a bilateral or three-party format. He also ruled out raising the issue of extending the right to vote in legislative elections to foreigners again in the current term.

The Prime Minister described the electricity price cap as a “good temporary solution” and reiterated that nuclear power would not play a role in Luxembourg.

Referring to Pope Francis’ upcoming visit, Frieden called it “a great honor,” as is the case with any international guest. He expressed great interest in the upcoming talks with the Pope.

European commissioner: “No one tells Luxembourg who to propose”

Frieden announced his intention to run for chairman of the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV), arguing that it would be more coherent for the prime minister to also lead the party. He assured that this role would save him time because it would allow him to be better connected with party positions and enable him to actively shape them. He described CSV’s performance in the European elections as satisfactory.

Frieden mentioned that discussions are ongoing about future positions in the European Commission, emphasizing that procedures must be followed. Once the “key positions” have been allocated, the Luxembourg government will propose a candidate for commissioner. It is still expected to be Christophe Hanse, and Frieden confirmed his good performance in the elections. Frieden assured that Luxembourg would make its own decisions regarding his proposal.

Ending on a lighter note, Frieden revealed his support for the Dutch team in the ongoing European Football Championship.