In California, German leader reaffirms commitment to war in Afghanistan, stresses cooperation

In Calif., Merkel addresses Afghanistan, security

PALO ALTO, Calif. — German Chancellor Angela Merkel says she remains committed to the war in Afghanistan but recognizes many people in her country doubt whether the military mission is necessary.

Merkel made her remarks on Thursday during a speech at Stanford University in which she also honored four German soldiers killed that day in Afghanistan.

Merkel says she accepts that people have doubts. However, she believes the mission is essential to guaranteeing freedom and security.

A recent poll showed Germany’s military mission in Afghanistan was growing increasingly unpopular at home.

Merkel also addressed global warming and world financial issues while at Stanford.

Her four-day U.S. visit also included stops in Berkeley, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.