Merz spokesperson defends German leader over remarks criticized in Brazil

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"Merz appeared to be trying to put into perspective complaints about the current situation in prosperous Germany, whose economy is struggling to generate growth, in a speech to a trade conference in Berlin. We live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Last week I asked some journalists who were with me in Brazil: Which of you would like to stay here? No one raised their hand, Merz said."

The Independent requests reader donations to fund on-the-ground journalism covering reproductive rights, climate change, Big Tech and political investigations while maintaining free access without paywalls. Donations are positioned as enabling reporters to speak to both sides and to produce projects like the documentary 'The A Word' that highlights American women fighting for reproductive rights. The funding approach emphasizes trust across the political spectrum and subsidization by those who can afford it. Separately, Chancellor Friedrich Merz faced pushback after comments following a Nov. 7 visit to Belem, Brazil, and his spokesperson denied any derogatory intent toward Brazil.

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