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28. 06. 12. - 12:00

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28. 06. 12. - 12:00

Playmobile Mini-Merkel

Kathryn Quinn

Fixing the Euro's troubles should be child's play for German chancellor Angela Merkel - now she's been turned into a model by toymakers Playmobil.

The figure was handed to one of her political allies Horst Seehofer when he visited the firm's factory in Zirndorf, Bavaria.

And Greek fans will notice that he three inch high mini-Merkel comes complete with grasping hands.

Although the figure's smile isn't quite how most of her EU rivals remember her, and her physique has certainly been given the odd trim, one expert said: "You can see instantly who it's supposed to be which is the genius of these models."

Wily political negotiator Seehofer - Bavaria's Minister-President - is often said to have the Chancellor in his pocket.

"Now he can make that come true," laughed one aide.

"This is strictly a one off for Mr Seehofer.

"But if there's enough demand, who knows?" said one Playmobil executive.

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