German Coalition Talks: Merkel readies for intense German coalition talks after tight SPD vote

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Germany's Social Democrats have reversed course -- voting in favor of formal coalition talks with Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservative bloc. It's a step toward forming a new government. But as CGTN's Guy Henderson reports from Bonn -- it was close.

In the end, they were a minority. But only just. And before the vote - those opposed to another Grand Coalition made clear they wanted more than they felt Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservatives would ever give them.

MARKUS GOTTBEH SPD MEMEBER "The CDU made clear that the results are not negotiable any more - it a waste of time to prolong the talks now."

The future of Europe is what motivated most of those in favor: helping French President Emmanuel Macron give reform a Social Democratic flavor.

SIMON VAUT SPD MEMBER "Macron made some bold suggestions - Europe is waiting for an answer. And I think it has to be given here today in Bonn."

That was Angela Merkel's view too - after all, a no vote could have been a blow to her political future.

GUY HENDERSON BONN, GERMANY "The fate of one of the most influential politicians on the world stage could be in the hands of delegates here. Between those who argue four more years of compromise in coalition will kill their party. And others - who believe the alternative is worse."

Before the ballot, a final plea from the leadership to the disillusioned: this time, it'll be different.

MARTIN SCHULZ LEADER, SOCIAL DEMOCRATS "In these coalition talks, we have achieved a paradigm shift in the European politics of Germany away from austerity to a stronger mutual responsibility for our continent. For me, as a staunch European, that is a massive success."

That line held the day. Just over half voted in favor of starting talks. The leadership's relief may yet be short-lived, though. In Berlin, the Chancellor was quick to suggest no big concessions would be up for grabs.

ANGELA MERKEL GERMAN CHANCELLOR "The blueprint of exploratory talks form the basis for formal coalition negotiations, and there are of course multiple issues which still need to be clarified in detail and that will surely require intensive deliberation."

Back on the hall floor -- the mood was hardly celebratory.GH, CGTN, BONN.