Integration achievements not up for debate in EU reforms talks: Merkel

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Wednesday that the principles of free movement and non-discrimination were not up for discussion regarding negotiations related to the EU reforms proposed by Britain.

"Britain will present its demands tomorrow, and we know that the task of finding a solution (to this issue) is very challenging," Merkel said in a statement in the German parliament, ahead of a summit when leaders of the 28-nation bloc are to discuss Britain's demands for its reforms.

"We want to reach an agreement so that the British government can be successful in the planned referendum on the status of Britain's membership in the EU," the chancellor told German parliamentarians.

On the other hand, she noted, the fundamental achievements of European integration, especially the principles of free movement and non-discrimination between European citizens, should not be put in question.

Merkel stressed that Germany hopes Britain remains permanently an active partner in a strong EU, adding that not only Britain itself benefits from its membership in the EU, the bloc as a whole would clearly lose weight without Britain in view of the country's important role in Europe and in the world.

Taking Denmark and Ireland as examples, Merkel said "good and consensual solutions were always found when a member state required explanation with respect to its role in the EU."

"I am therefore confident that it can also succeed this time with Britain," the chancellor added. Enditem