"Merz is the oldest of the 27 EU leaders, and the first German chancellor over the age of 70 since Konrad AdenauerImage: Jens Krick/Flashpic/picture alliance Chancellor Friedrich Merz turns 70 on Tuesday, with a celebration planned by his Christian Democrats (CDU) in the late afternoon before the German leader marks the occasion with his wife, Charlotte, his children and grandchildren. Merz himself has said he is not going to make a fuss about the occasion and that Tuesday will be a "normal working day.""
"Not everyone in Germany is of the opinion, however, that his age is not a hindrance, with 52% of respondents in a survey by the Forsa polling institute for private broadcaster RTL saying it would be better if he were younger. The same poll showed a slump in his popularity, with just 18% saying they would welcome it if he ran for chancellor again in 2029."
Friedrich Merz celebrates his 70th birthday with a CDU event and private family time while maintaining that he will treat the day as a normal working day. He says aging brings greater philosophical perspective and clarity about priorities and that he is grateful to be fit and able to focus on his role as chancellor. Public opinion shows concern about his age, with a Forsa-RTL poll finding 52% prefer a younger chancellor and only 18% supporting a 2029 bid. The coalition government faces criticism for infighting, policy rows and weak economic performance.
Read at www.dw.com
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