France, July 24 -- The two leaders have reaffirmed Franco-German unity, vowing to tackle challenges ranging from transatlantic trade tensions to European defence and energy policy.

French President Emmanuel Macron met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin on Wednesday, with the two leaders seeking to present a united front on transatlantic trade tensions and NATO security, among a number of pressing challenges.

Since taking office in May, Merz has joined Macron in working to reinvigorate the Franco-German alliance at the core of the European Union, as United States President Donald Trump continues to test the strength of transatlantic ties.

Alongside London and Warsaw, Paris and Berlin have been leading efforts to bolster sup...