SPD on foreign affairs and defence

The SPD backs the Bundeswehr and the US armed forces in Rhineland-Palatinate and wants to support their bases. Security cooperation with the US side and the transatlantic partnership are to be deepened.

The SPD supports the German army in Rhineland-Palatinate. It also supports the US military bases in the state. The state should work more closely with the US. One example is defense against drones.

The platform cites the changed threat situation since Russia's attack on Ukraine and mentions around 23,000 Bundeswehr posts in the state. Within its own powers, the state wants to help upgrade and reactivate military properties. The platform regards the US forces as part of the security architecture and as an employer for thousands. Programs such as "Welcome 2 RLP" are to foster community relations, and the Atlantische Akademie (Atlantic Academy) is to develop cooperation strategically.

The SPD wants to expand the state's partnership with the Ukrainian oblast of Vinnytsia through concrete projects and expresses support for Ukraine. The partnership with Rwanda, which has existed since 1982, is to be deepened, especially between universities.

Rhineland-Palatinate has a partner region in Ukraine. It is called Vinnytsia. The SPD wants to start joint projects there. There is also a partnership with Rwanda in Africa. The SPD wants to deepen it. Universities should work together more closely.

Projects in education, digitalization and climate protection are planned with Vinnytsia, which according to the program should contribute to a free and European Ukraine. Cooperation with Rwanda rests on the partnership agreement renewed in 2022. Biotechnology and the circular economy are to be focus areas. Joint research projects, exchanges of students and teaching staff, and joint degree programs are planned.