Angela Merkel at centre stage of bid to ensure EU unity after Brexit

Britain's decision to leave the European Union puts German Chancellor Angela Merkel at centre stage as the bloc seeks to preserve its unity and win back sceptical voters across the continent.

Ms Merkel stressed that "Germany has a special interest and a special responsibility in European unity succeeding", as she voiced regret on Friday at the Brexit vote, citing Europe's 20th century history of wars.