Europe

Germany's 2 Rival Political Parties Agree To Coalition Talks

Chancellor Angela Merkel has been trying to form a coalition government since September.

Germany's 2 Rival Political Parties Agree To Coalition Talks
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Germany's Social Democrat party voted Sunday to enter coalition talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel's party.

Germany has been in political deadlock since the country's election in September. No party received enough votes to form a government.

Head Of Germany's Social Democrats Wants A 'United States Of Europe'
Head Of Germany's Social Democrats Wants A 'United States Of Europe'

Head Of Germany's Social Democrats Wants A 'United States Of Europe'

The goal might complicate negotiations between the party and Angela Merkel.

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Initially the Social Democrats said they wouldn't work with Merkel or her Christian Democratic Union party, but in December the party voted to begin negotiations. In January, those talks led to the beginnings of a coalition deal.

Many Social Democrats are worried the initial talks weakened their political position too much. But party leader Martin Schulz promised he'd negotiate more platform concessions from Merkel in this next round.

Once it's all done, the Social Democrats will hold a final vote to approve the new coalition.