G-7 summit a chance for Obama, Merkel to mend relations

US President Obama arrived in Germany Sunday morning for the annual meeting of the heads of the world’s largest economic powers planning only a single extended, one-on-one get-together -- a stroll through a picturesque Bavarian village with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Obama and Merkel walked the streets of Krun, chatted with villagers and shared a meal of wurst, an especially leisurely schedule for a president who often skips lunch to maximize work time on trips.

Speaking to a crowd of Krun residents, many dressed in traditional dirndls and lederhosen and drinking beer at picnic tables, Obama praised Merkel for her leadership in historic terms.

Amid difficult challenges, “what gives me hope is the example of Germany,” Obama said. “The fact that all of us are here together today is proof that conflicts can end and great progress is possible.”

Indeed, the time devoted to Merkel reflects more than just personal affinity and a desire to show courtesy to the host of this year’s G-7 summit.

On many of the issues on the summit's agenda — responding to Russian President Vladimir Putin's moves against Ukraine, finding a solution for the economic troubles of Greece, confronting Iran over its nuclear program, bolstering Iraq's government in the fight against Islamic State militants — Merkel has become Europe's most important voice and a key U.S. ally.