Merkel still eyes changes to EU treaty

German Chancellor Angela Merkel makes a statement during a news conference at the Chancellery in Berlin June 9, 2010. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo) German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday reiterated her call for changes to European Union treaties to ensure euro stability and prevent financial crises.

"I'm of the opinion that we also need changes to the treaties," said Merkel after a meeting in Berlin with European Council President Herman van Rompuy. "I even believe that such a treaty change could bring security for markets. "

According to Merkel, such changes could include a set of procedure to prevent countries from neglecting constraints of the EU Stability and Growth Pact.

Van Rompuy meanwhile said that he does see treaty changes as a priority.

"Our priority is to work within the framework of the treaties," he said while noting that there is no taboo to speak about treaty changes.

Merkel and van Rompuy made the comments before the next EU summit on June 17 at which a common EU economic strategy is to be discussed.

Indirectly rejecting French President Nicolas Sarkozy's call for an "economic government" for the 16-member euro zone, Merkel stressed on Thursday that it is necessary for leaders of all 27 EU members to be involved in the process of seeking broader economic governance.

Van Rompuy also spoke against the French proposal to establish euro zone secretariat to coordinate economic policy, saying "we do not need new institutions to meet our goals. We need more effectiveness."


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