Merkel accepts German responsibility for war atrocities

German Chancellor Angela Merkel cited her country’s responsibility for the occupation of Greece and atrocities committed by Nazis during World War II, after laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Syntagma Square, however, did not accept talks regarding reparations.

Greek President Prokopis Pavlopoulos, who attended the ceremony told Merkel, “As Greeks, we consider these demands legally active and judicially pursued and should be solved in the competent European forum.”

Merkel then responded, “We know how much suffering Germany caused Greece during that era of National Socialism and the lesson for us is to do everything we can to ensure good relations with Greece and to support each other for the benefit of both countries,” however did not touch on the subject of money.

Greece is seeking $317.75 billion for World War II damages caused by the Nazis, however, to this date, German officials, including Merkel, have refused any talks.

*Image Courtesy of AP/ Petros Giannakouris