Overview
- The CDU/CSU parliamentary group is organizing a reception in the Reichstag's Protocol Hall for Chancellor Friedrich Merz's 70th birthday on 11 November, first reported by Focus.
- Merkel's office told dpa that no invitation is on record and that she would be unable to attend due to a foreign trip.
- Invitations to Bundestag members have already been sent, with additional guests such as Union state premiers to follow.
- Organizers expect about 300 attendees at the reception.
- Merz will be the first German chancellor over 70 since Konrad Adenauer, with coverage noting his long-strained rapport with Merkel alongside her recent mix of criticism and rare praise.