Germany's federal and state governments negotiate funding plans

Germany's federal and state governments are set to negotiate the distribution of public funds and the cost of new legislation.

At a meeting of the state premiers in Berlin on Thursday, key topics will include which level of government should cover additional expenses arising from federal laws.

The states are also pushing for major reforms to streamline and modernize their administrations.

The results of the Conference of German state leaders are expected to be presented at 2 pm (1300 GMT).

A follow-up meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is to take place at the Chancellery, after which the federal and state governments plan to jointly announce any agreements reached.