Merkel calls for joint efforts in handling refugees

Visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel said here on Tuesday that joint efforts should be made by EU countries to deal with the refugee problem.

Addressing a press conference after meeting Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt, Merkel said a fair distribution system for refugees, based on population and the economic strength of each country, should be put in place.

"We all have a responsibility. The question is how we allocate the people who come, and who are supposed to help," Merkel told the press conference.

During their meeting, Merkel and Thorning-Schmidt also discussed issues of common concern, including bilateral relations, the Ukraine crisis, and Europe's economic recovery after the crisis.

Merkel said the two countries are currently sharing good relationship and friendship in spite of difficult histories.

The two leaders also talked about the planned construction of an 18-km long tunnel under the Baltic Sea to link Denmark and Germany.

According to Thorning-Schmidt, the Danish parliament on Tuesday agreed on the law allowing construction to begin on the project and freeing up funds.

Merkel said her government would give support to the project but she can not promise anything.

"We will work to ensure that things are being implemented as smoothly as possible. But I can not promise anything on behalf of the players, I do not have influence, " Merkel said. Endit