Friedrich Merz, the CDU’s party chief and former chancellor, welcomed Angela Merkel’s visit to the party congress in Stuttgart, calling it a positive event that enriched the proceedings. “It was a good event yesterday-it added value to the congress” he told RTL/ntv after the congress concluded. “I’m pleased that she is receiving such warm hospitality when she comes” Merz added.
Overall, Merz stressed that Merkel’s appearance was a “good event” but noted that it did not dominate the congress in his view. At the start of the day, photographers lined up around Merkel, capturing photos of her with Merz that some interpreted as frosty, while others saw a relaxed atmosphere. Media interest in the former chancellor cooled as the day progressed. When Merz was re‑elected as party chief in the evening, Merkel was already gone, and the ballot itself was delayed by several hours.