German climate activists call for strong action

BERLIN

Thousands of protesters marched through the streets of Berlin on Friday calling on political parties to take strong action to combat climate change.

Nearly 10,000 protesters gathered around the capital's landmark Brandenburg Gate during the demonstration, organized by the Fridays for Future youth movement.

Protesters called on the country’s prospective coalition government to set out clear goals to make Germany climate neutral by 2035, and a coal phase-out by 2030.

Some of the demonstrators blocked the entrance of the Social Democratic Party’s (SPD) headquarters for several hours, criticizing the party leaders for making insufficient pledges for climate protection.

The SPD, which narrowly won the last month’s elections, has started formal negotiations with the Greens and the Free Democrats this week to form a three-way coalition government.

The three parties reached a preliminary agreement on a blueprint outlining their main objectives, but differences remain on climate goals, and how to finance major energy transition projects and initiatives.

The parties are planning to conclude coalition negotiations next month and form the new government before Christmas.