World News | Erdogan, Merkel Debate over Shortcomings of Coalition Government

Ankara [Turkey], October 16 (ANI/Xinhua): Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and German Chancellor Angela Merkel engaged in a debate over the shortcomings of a coalition government during the latter's farewell trip to Istanbul on Saturday.

"Under Merkel, there was a successful period in Turkish-German relations. But it is always difficult to work with a coalition government. Turkey had a lot of problems when had it, but after switching to a presidential system, we got rid of them and started to work intensively," Erdogan told reporters after a meeting with Merkel.

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The chancellor, in turn, said that a coalition government suits Germany, noting her country is not going to switch to a presidential system.

In response, Erdogan recalled that Merkel complained about difficulties with the coalition government during talks with him.

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"It is true, but this is life," Merkel said.

Erdogan replied with a smile, quoting his grandchild who says "Grandfather, what can you do? This is life," raising laughter among those present. (ANI/Xinhua)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)