Germany's Angela Merkel to meet Barack Obama at White House on February 9

WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama will meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the White House on February 9, a presidential spokesman said here today.

"The two leaders will discuss a range of issues including Ukraine, Russia, counter terrorism, ISIL, Afghanistan, and Iran," White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest said.

They will also cover economic growth, international trade, climate change and Germany's plans for hosting the G-7 Summit in June, he said.

Merkel's visit highlights the importance of US-German cooperation on global affairs and the strong and abiding friendship between the two countries, he said.

Obama and Merkel will have a meeting in the Oval Office followed by a working lunch.

"Germany is a close and valued ally, partner, and friend of the United States, and the President looks forward to welcoming Chancellor Merkel back to the White House," Earnest said.