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Wednesday, June 12, 2019, 11:43
France's Macron backs Merkel for EU post - if she wants it
By Associated Press
Wednesday, June 12, 2019, 11:43 By Associated Press

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers his statement, during the 108th session of the International Labour Conference - ILO Centenary Session, at the European headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, June 11, 2019. (SALVATORE DI NOLFI / KEYSTONE VIA AP)

GENEVA — French President Emmanuel Macron says he would support German Chancellor Angela Merkel if she wanted to be the head of the European Union's executive body.

READ MORE: Merkel successor backs Macron's EU call, floats own ideas

The French leader said Tuesday the EU "needs someone strong" at the helm of the European Commission but that he wouldn't try to influence Merkel, citing their friendship.

Macron told Swiss public broadcaster RTS: "If she were to want it, I would support her."Merkel said last month she doesn't want the EU job, or any political post.

She has supported Manfred Weber, a German member of the European Parliament, to be the next European Commission president. Current President Jean-Claude Juncker's five-year tenure ends Oct. 31.

ALSO READ: How prepared is EU for no-deal Brexit?

Merkel announced in October she would not seek re-election after her fourth term as Germany's leader ends in 2021. 

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