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Macron Applauds Merkel’s Decision Not to Seek Re-Election

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday praised German Chancellor Angela Merkel for her decision not to stand for re-election in 2021.
Sputnik

Earlier in the day, Merkel said she would not participate in the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leadership contest in December and would step down as federal chancellor in 2021. Merkel said the decision was made in summer.

Merkel Had to Quit Leadership Race Due to Loss of Support Within CDU - Lawmaker

"It is her decision, and I think it deserves respect," Macron said in Paris at a joint press conference with the visiting Ethiopian prime minister.

READ MORE: Merkel Won't Run for Reelection as Chancellor, to Give Up Post of CDU Head

Macron described the chancellor’s 13-year-rule as "very courageous" and applauded her commitment to European values.

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