Merkel insists US ties key to Germany despite Trump tensions

Addressing one of Trump’s biggest complaints — that Berlin is exploiting the United States when it comes to trade — Merkel said that that narrative only takes into account the trade in goods. She said that when trade in services and repatriation of profits are taken into account, the figures favour the U.S.

Merkel, now in her fourth term, said tit-for-tat tariffs imposed or threatened between the United States and China could cause collateral damage to German automakers such as BMW, which has its biggest plant in the U.S.

“We see these potential tariffs both as a breach of WTO rules and also as a danger to the prosperity of many in the world,” she said.

Merkel said that trans-Atlantic co-operation, including with the president, is “of course central for us and I will continue to nurture it,” adding that co-operation produces “win-win” situations.

Responding to questions about the meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin and a possible further meeting in Washington, Merkel insisted she welcomed their encounter.

“I think it should become normal again for Russian and American presidents to meet,” she said. “That’s why I’m happy about every meeting.”

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Geir Moulson contributed to this report.

Frank Jordans, The Associated Press

by Canadian Press

Merkel insists US ties key to Germany despite Trump tensions

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