Angela Merkel Opts to Sit at Ceremony After Third Bout of Shaking

  • Chancellor sat alongside Danish counterpart as anthems played
  • Merkel insists she’s able to carry out her responsibilities

Angela Merkel and Mette Frederiksen on July 11.

Photographer: Tobias Schwarz/AFP via Getty Images
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German Chancellor Angela Merkel grappled with intensifying scrutiny of her health by opting to sit through a ceremony where she might have trembled again and dodging pointed questions from the press.

In an unprecedented arrangement for a state visit, Merkel and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen remained seated during the playing of both countries’ national anthems at a reception outside the chancellery in Berlin on Thursday. Merkel, who will turn 65 next week, normally stands during such events.