Cameron, Merkel discuss EU reform in London

LONDON, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- British Prime Minister David Cameron and visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday discussed the European Union (EU)'s reform prospects and Britain's relationship with the bloc in London.

At a press conference following their talks, Cameron reiterated that the EU should be reformed and a reformed EU would be in the interests of both Britain and Europe.

Referring to Britain's membership in the EU, Merkel urged: "We would very much like to have the UK in a strong and successful Europe."

Cameron has promised to offer an "in or out" referendum on Britain's EU membership before the end of 2017 if his Conservative Party wins next year's general elections.

In terms of immigration in the EU, the British prime minister called for restrictions on welfare for new immigrants.

While agreeing on the need to tackle "abuse" of welfare by immigrants, Merkel insisted on upholding the principle of freedom of movement of people within the EU.

The two leaders also expressed their united condemnation of a deadly armed attack on the Paris office of the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo on Wednesday, which killed at least 12 people, including journalists, cartoonists and policemen.

"We will stand with you at this time and I know that Chancellor Merkel will absolutely agree with me that everyone should combine to condemn completely this outrage and stand with the French people at this time," Cameron told the press conference.