Angela Merkel re-elected as Chairwoman of the CDU Party

German Chancellor Angela Merkel was re-elected as Chairwoman of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) on December 6 with 89.5% of the votes.

The party's high approval rating is seen as a big boost as Merkel seeks a fourth term as chancellor in next year's election. However, it is down from the 96.7% she received in the last vote two years ago.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Photo: Reuters.

According to observers, Germany's open-door policy of welcoming about 1 million migrants last year has affected the Chancellor's reputation as well as the support rate for the Christian Democratic Union Party.

Merkel, 62, has been German Chancellor since 2005. Taking charge of Europe's largest economy, the Chancellor has steered Germany through the Eurozone financial and debt crisis. Germany's reputation has also increased on the international stage, with efforts to resolve conflicts around the world.

Ms. Merkel's announcement of her decision to run for a fourth term as Chancellor also received widespread support from public opinion domestically as well as in Europe.

According to commentators, with the rise of right-wing parties in some European countries as well as the changing world context after the US presidential election, Chancellor Merkel will be a strong fortress protecting Western liberal values./.

According to VOV