International

US President Barack Obama said Russia is one of the most important countries in the world as well as being a military superpower, during a press conference in Berlin on Thursday. Speaking alongside German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the president said that “with respect to Russia, my principle approach to Russia has been constant since I first came into office. Russia is an important country, it is a military superpower. It has influence in the region and around the world.” He went on to stress the importance of cooperation with and support for Russia, adding: “I think we should all hope for a Russia that is successful, where the people are employed, where its economy is growing, having good relationships with their neighbours." Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany (German): "Under the leadership of Barack Obama this Paris deal would never have come about. There has been a change in the attitude of the United States towards that agreement but there is also better co-operation with china. So last year we were able to conclude a Paris climate change agreement which will lead the way for the rest of the world, which is groundbreaking, and together with the sustainable goals of the agenda 2030 for the whole world."