Germany's Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz on Monday named utility executive Katherina Reiche as his likely economy minister and ally Johann Wadephul as foreign minister, as part of a raft of first appointments.

Germany’s chancellor-in-waiting hands key ministries to CDU veterans and business figures, setting the tone for a more conservative, security-focused government.

Incoming German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has revealed which Cabinet positions which will be filled by ministers from his conservative CDU party, including the roles of foreign minister and economy minister.