"The preservation of NATO is in our own interest, more than during the Cold War," Merkel told parliament. While not referring directly to Macron's remarks in her speech to German parliament, Merkel addressed the French leader's critique. READ ALSO: Merkel fires back at Trump: Germany makes independent decisionsUnderlining Washington's changing role in playing world cop, Merkel noted that "the United States no longer automatically takes up responsibility when it's burning around us". It was therefore crucial to maintain the defence alliance, stressed Merkel. "It would be great if Germany took up its role as one of the leaders of the world," he said.

Source: The Local November 27, 2019 10:07 UTC