Birthday tributes display Merkel’s power

Turning 60 years old on the 17 July 2014, German Chancellor Angela Merkel held the title of one of the most influential political leaders in the world.

Several media sources published articles mentioning speculation that she might step down before the end of her current term to take up an international top post - the presidency of the European Council or the United Nations.

In a letter congratulating Mrs Merkel on her 60th birthday, former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl encouraged her to focus on policy that brings Europe closer together, and emphasised the value of partnership with the United States.

• Primary Source

Spiegel Online International, 16.07.14: The Buzz in Berlin: Is Merkel Thinking of Stepping Down? http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/party-insiders-say-angela-merkel-may-leave-office-early-a-980987.html

The Guardian, 17.07.14: Merkel's 60th birthday brings both presents and speculation http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jul/17/merkel-chancellor-60th-birthday-political-future-germany

Euronews, 17.07.14: Chancellor Angela Merkel turns 60 as the European Council’s summit draws to a close http://www.euronews.com/nocomment/2014/07/17/german-chancellor-angela-merkel-turns-60-as-the-european-councils-summit-draws-/

Deutsche Welle, 16.07.14: Europe's boss: Merkel turns 60 http://dw.de/p/1CdfR

EurActiv, 18.07.14: Kohl encourages Merkel to pursue EU unity http://www.euractiv.com/sections/euro-finance/kohl-encourages-merkel-pursue-eu-unity-303579

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