Ex-leader Angela Merkel decorated with highest German honour

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, left, presents the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in a special design to former chancellor Angela Merkel during a reception at Bellevue Palace in Berlin, Germany (Markus Schreiber/AP)

Former chancellor Angela Merkel has been decorated with Germany’s highest possible honour in recognition of her near-record 16 years at the helm of the country.

President Frank-Walter Steinmeier bestowed the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit for special achievement on the four-term chancellor, who became only the third ex-leader to receive that level of distinction.