Angela Merkel Congratulates Friedrich Merz via SMS

germany - Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel congratulated her party's leader Friedrich Merz on the election victory via text message.

Angela Merkel's Quiet Congratulatory Message

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel congratulated Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz on the party's election victory through a text message. In the message, Merkel wished Merz success in forming the government. Despite the tense relationship between the two politicians, this congratulatory message was interpreted as a kind of 'peace message'.

Ups and Downs

The relationship between Merkel and Merz has had its ups and downs over the years. Merkel's removal of Merz from the CDU/CSU group leadership in 2002 caused deep tension between the two. Earlier this year, Merkel criticized Merz for seeking support from the far-right AfD party on immigration policy. However, last summer, the two were seen in a very friendly manner at Merkel's 70th birthday celebration, signaling a thaw in their relationship. Merkel, after stepping down from office, is avoiding an active role in politics but is known to closely monitor developments within the CDU.