Merkel, Macron agree to strengthen eurozone after first meeting

German media reported Tuesday that plans to strengthen the eurozone are in motion after newly-elected French President Emmanuel Macron met German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel (R) poses for photos with visiting French President Emmanuel Macron in Berlin, capital of Germany, on May 15, 2017. [Photo: Xinhua]

Both pro-Europe leaders were keen to show solidarity concerning the eurozone and have broken with previous statements by discussing potential changes to EU treaties.

The move is seen by both nations as a way of healing ongoing EU upheaval, combating the rise of the far right and showing a united front in the wake of Brexit negotiations.

The German chancellor greeted President Macron with warm words during the official press conference and pledged that this new partnership would be one of trust and close cooperation. The French president stated that he wished for an "open, direct and constructive" partner.

The official meeting was the French president's inaugural visit on his first official day in office, and was joined by his newly appointed Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, who can speak German. 

Macron is no stranger to German politics, being closely involved in official discussions in 2012-2014 between the two nations on how to improve economic integration in the eurozone.

During the press conference Monday in Berlin, both leaders raised concerns about inflexible EU treaties for the changing geopolitical landscape.

Their plan includes a joint cabinet meeting in July, after the French parliamentary vote, to further plan joint political collaboration.