"The threat posed by Iran's nuclear programme is serious," said Merkel at a press conference. If the next round of talks do not produce a satisfactory solution, then sanctions under the aegis of the United Nations must be considered, declared the Chancellor.

The next steps will call for Russian and Chinese involvement, according to Merkel. Bush stressed that a diplomatic solution is possible, if Germany and many other states pull together.

By 15 December, Iran is to provide the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) with answers to all open questions regarding its nuclear programme.

Good ideas are called for

Bush and Merkel also discussed the reform of the UN Security Council. The Chancellor stressed the fact that she felt an interest on the part of America in UN reform. Reform is only possible, however, if all permanent members of the Security Council are involved. Bush was open to the idea of reform. "I'm willing to listen to good ideas," he said.

Germany has for years been trying to gain a permanent seat on the Security Council. Other candidates include Japan, India, Brazil and South Africa. As well as the possible extension of the Security Council to embrace more permanent members, alternative solutions are being discussed. At the moment only the USA, China, Russia, the United Kingdom and France are permanent members of the Security Council.

The Chancellor was cautiously optimistic on the topic of climate protection. In December, at the UN Climate Change Conference in Bali, negotiations are to be launched on a new global climate agreement. "There is a good chance that Bali will be successful," said Merkel.

Invitation a sign of warmth and respect

Merkel's visit to the Bush ranch is the first time for more than forty years that a German Chancellor has been invited to the home of a US President. The visit was also a private invitation. The Chancellor was accompanied by her husband, Professor Joachim Sauer.

On Friday, the President picked up his guests in his pickup truck from the helipad. Along with his wife Laura, he then showed Angela Merkel and her husband around the ranch. "In Texas, when you invite somebody into your home it's a sign of warmth and respect," said Bush. And that is what he feels for the Chancellor. Merkel thanked him for this opportunity to discuss matters together. "It is a beautiful place," she said, and explained that it gives something of an impression of the wide-open American landscape. 

The ranch in Crawford

Crawford is a town in the state of Texas. It is eighteen miles west of the town of Waco. Founded on 12 August 1897 it is best known for the Prairie Chapel Ranch, which belongs to George W. Bush, and where he spends his vacations. He also receives official guests here.