Angela Merkel scores higher approval ratings than any other world leader

Exclusive: in six countries surveyed, outgoing chancellor is most appreciated for handling of German economy

Almost 16 years after she first became Germany's chancellor, Angela Merkel's approval ratings in five major European countries and the United States remain higher than those of any other current world leader, a new poll shows.

Asked by YouGov whether they had a favourable or unfavourable opinion of Merkel, who steps down next month after four terms in office, more respondents delivered a positive verdict than a negative one in all six countries surveyed.