German chancellor Merkel addressing party faithful earlier today 25 Nov
"Europe needs a strong Germany, it is desirable to get a government in place quickly"
She added she was prepared to talk to the Social Democrats (SPD) after the centre-left party reversed an earlier decision and said it was prepared to talk to Merkel's conservatives, but she stressed any talks should be based on mutual respect.
Welcoming the prospect of talks with her former partner Merkel has defended the record of the last coalition.
"We worked well together"
adding that under the grand coalition Germany enjoyed the strongest labour market for decades, a balanced budget and pensioners and families had benefited
Yesterday German president Steinmeier called for talks between CDU/CSU/SPD leaders next week, now known to be on Thursday
Euro bulls still banking on a positive conclusion.
Hats off to Steve Smith for a truly superb Ashes cricket innings, potentially a game changer and one that will go down in Ashes history. He spent time at my club, Sevenoaks Vine, when he was 17/18 and was always totally focussed on his game. Now we wait to see whether England's skipper Root shows the same mettle.
Meanwhile football still on my agenda here and heading out now. Have a good week-end everyone.
Merkel - Still hoping
