Stories from Stuttgart · Germany

The German pension reform commission is scheduled to present its report this summer. The health reform and budget framework have already passed through the cabinet. Economic Minister Katharina Reiche stated that while disagreement is acceptable, solutions must be reached.

Mercedes reported a 28% decline in its first quarter results. The report follows a period where the group's stock was penalized. This performance comes alongside broader market shifts in the automotive sector. The report noted a 24 percent decline in certain metrics.

The state board of the AfD in Baden-Württemberg has dismissed the district board in Stuttgart with immediate effect. The decision follows reports of financial irregularities, according to the source. The move was reported by SWR Aktuell.

The Landesvorstand has appointed an emergency board for Stuttgart consisting of himself. SWR chief Fronmaier confirmed the move following reports that several tens of thousands of euros disappeared from the Kreisverband Stuttgart account.

Municipalities in Baden-Württemberg are demanding increased state funding to address gaps in childcare, hospital financing, and rail infrastructure.

A data analysis by SWR indicates approximately 60,000 suspected illegal fuel price increases occurred across Germany during the first three weeks of April. No specific number of stations or total price discrepancy was provided in the report. Federal Justice Minister Hubig noted that tenants will eventually bear half of the CO2 price costs. Research by SWR revealed approximately 60,000 suspected illegal price increases for fuel in Germany. The research found 60,000 instances where prices were increased at other times or more frequently than permitted since the ban began at the start of the month. This non-compliance has contributed to an increase in average fuel prices. The report notes that the current practice of adjusting prices is illogical and warrants criticism. Many stations are failing to adhere to the midday rule.

Germany has proposed a reform to prevent unnecessary medical operations through mandatory second opinions. The plan aims to control rising fees for doctors and physicians.

Baden-Wuerttemberg President Kretschmann is stepping down after 15 years in office. The announcement was made at the New Palace in Stuttgart. The departure marks the end of an era for the state's leadership. He was Germany's first Green Party head of government and the country's longest-serving state leader. Former President Joachim Gauck delivered a laudatory speech praising Kretschmann's political work. Winfried Kretschmann was formally bid farewell today as he concludes his tenure as Minister President of Baden-Württemberg. He is retiring from politics entirely after serving in the role for 15 years. Winfried Kretschmann, the 77-year-old Minister President, concluded his 15-year tenure in a ceremony featuring a serenade by the Heeresmusik Ulm. Kretschmann expressed emotion during the event and noted he could not definitively say he would leave without a successor.

The farewell ceremony took place at the New Palace in Stuttgart. On his departure day, there was general consensus that Ministerpräsident Kretschmann changed Baden-Württemberg over the last 15 years. Science Minister Petra Olschowski participated in the ceremony. The Heeresmusikkorps Ulm traveled to a ceremony in Stuttgart to honor the outgoing Ministerpräsident. The Heeresmusikkorps Ulm attended the ceremony in Stuttgart, which also featured Swan Lake ballet and jazz by Dave Brubek. Minister President Winfried Kretschmann of Baden-Württemberg stepped down from office today. A farewell ceremony was held at the Neues Schloss in Stuttgart. Jan Müste-Mir, also from the Green Party, is expected to be elected by the Landtag on May 13. Michael Kretschmann stated that the upcoming double budget is necessary for essential societal functions to continue.

The German cabinet approved a plan for new high-voltage direct current lines, specifically targeting the Southwestlink project. The new power lines will be built on large overhead pylons rather than underground, as originally planned.