The most popular politician in France these days is German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who has been lauded for her leadership on Europe’s migrant crisis. “The Incredible Mrs. Merkel” reads Thursday’s cover of weekly Le Point. “If only she was French…” adds the French magazine.
Germany’s response to the latest surge of refugees from Syria and other war-torn regions, including a commitment of 6 billion euros to welcome 800 000 asylum seekers, contrasts with the largely wait-and-see policy adopted by France.
On Wednesday, Merkel and Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission, pressed other countries on the continent to receive a greater share of refugees.
Le Point is one of several French publications to celebrate Merkel, who in the past has been the object of scorn in France. Le Monde even suggested on Wednesday that the German chancellor merits the Nobel Peace Prize.