Klingbeil criticized CSU leader Markus Söder for policies like expanding the maternity pension and lowering VAT, which he claims increase the budget deficit, and called for collegial discussions to reconcile differing proposals.

He also criticized Economy Minister Katherina Reiche's call for Germans to work longer, arguing that high-income individuals often demand others to make sacrifices, which he believes is unfair.

Klingbeil called for substantial government savings and austerity measures across ministries, noting that the mid-term financial plan until 2029 projects a total new debt of 851 billion euros and a remaining gap of 172 billion euros for 2027-2029.

German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil has indicated that tax hikes for high earners and wealthy individuals are on the table as part of efforts to address a 30 billion euro budget gap projected for 2027, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive package including social security reforms and subsidy reductions.

Klingbeil highlighted the importance of reaching a credible agreement in the Ukraine conflict and urged Russia to cease hostilities, noting the ongoing casualties and the critical nature of the upcoming week.

He criticized the SPD's focus on citizen benefits during the election campaign, calling for unity and responsible governance, and reaffirmed the party's belief that high-income earners should contribute more to societal fairness.

Klingbeil stressed the necessity of collaborative efforts among coalition partners to align proposals, reduce the budget gap, and share responsibility for governing effectively.

He firmly ruled out leaving the coalition, reaffirming his commitment to shared responsibility and responsible governance.

Overall, the discussion on tax increases and fiscal reforms is part of broader efforts to address budget issues through social security reforms, subsidy cuts, and responsible spending.