German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sought to strengthen ties, including better cooperation on trade issues, with the United States during a meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has arrived at the White House. With a customary handshake from President Trump on arrival, the bilateral has begun. Reporters will soon follow them into the Oval Office for their meeting. Our reporters at the White House have spotted German media arriving, the honour guard appearing, and the gates opening.

President Trump's meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will take place amid a backdrop of tensions between the U.S. and Europe over trade and Ukraine.