myanmar

Merkel calls on ASEAN to pressure Burma

Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to openly discuss Burma's political and human rights problems before the country takes its turn as chair of the regional bloc.

myanmar

Merkel demands Burma free political prisoners

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday urged the new civilian government in Burma to release political prisoners as she spoke by phone with pro-democracy activist Aung San Suu Kyi.

European Union

Merkel and Sarkozy back Barroso for another term at EU's helm

Germany and France on Thursday threw their weight behind a second term for European Commision President Jose Manuel Barroso, but said he must commit to a clear plan for steering Europe.

aid

Merkel slams Myanmar’s aid stance

German Chancellor Merkel said Myanmar's blockade of vital international relief for victims of the cyclone is "unacceptable” as politicians call for UN action to raise pressure on the country’s military regime.