Donald Trump praises Angela Merkel on Germany's spending on defence, NATO

Washington: US President Donald Trump on Friday said the United States would respect historic institutions but that other countries must pay their fair share to support the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

Trump, speaking at a news conference following his meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, said he thanked her "for the German government`s commitment to increase defence spending and work toward contributing at least 2 percent of GDP" for NATO.

Earlier, the new US President greeted the long-serving stateswoman at the White House with a handshake upon her arrival before they began talks in the Oval Office. Both leaders described their meeting in brief remarks to reporters as having been very good.

Merkel smiled comfortably in her chair next to the President, who sat with his legs apart and hands together.