On New Year's Eve, Merkel mapped out key priorities in her annual New Year's address. She vowed to address growing social divisions as she worked rapidly to build a stable government.

ANGELA MERKEL GERMAN CHANCELLOR "For you, my fellow citizens, have charged us politicians with the task of tending to the challenges of the future, and in doing so, keeping the needs of all our citizens in mind. I feel obligated by that directive - also, and especially as part of the work to build a new stable government for Germany in the new year. Because the world will not wait for us. We must create the conditions now that ensure that Germany continues to prosper in 10, 15 years. And Germany will only prosper if its success serves all people and improves and enriches our lives."