Merkel ‘wants to join’ other European states on 2050 climate plan

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said she would like to join other European countries in aiming to eliminate virtually all greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. However, the goal needs to be achievable, she said.

Merkel initially refused to join the initiative put forward last week by French President Emmanuel Macron and eight other EU countries, despite domestic pressure to do so, AP reported.

At an international climate change meeting in Berlin, Merkel said on Tuesday that the idea will be put on her Cabinet’s agenda.

“The discussion is not about whether we can achieve it, but about how we can achieve it,” she noted. “If we can find a sensible answer, then we can join the initiative.”