Olaf Scholz is sworn in as Germany's new chancellor

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And the two leaders were straight down to business, vowing to work closely together on a range of key issues in including security and Brexit. Mr Scholz, leader of Germany’s centre-left SPD party, was formally sworn in on December 8.

A Number 10 spokesman said: “The Prime Minister spoke to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz this evening to congratulate him on his appointment.

“The Prime Minister and Chancellor Scholz underlined the fundamental value of the UK-Germany relationship, which is driven by our countries’ shared global outlook.”

The spokesman added: “They agreed on the importance of the partnership in areas including foreign policy, climate change and trade.

“Both leaders resolved to work to deepen and breadthen the relationship further.

“The leaders discussed a number of international issues, including the current situation on Ukraine’s border.

The spokesman added:  “They agreed on the importance of engaging with Russia to de-escalate the situation and prevent further aggression.

“They also updated one another on the latest developments relating to the emergence of the Omicron variant in their respective countries.

“The Prime Minister and Chancellor Scholz welcomed the opportunity Germany’s Presidency of the G7 in 2022 presents for building on the progress made under the UK’s Presidency this year.”

He emphasised: “The Prime Minister stressed the importance he places on resolving the very real issues caused by the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

“Both leaders agreed it was important to address this issue as soon as possible

“The leaders looked forward to meeting again in person at the earliest opportunity.”

On Tuesday Mr Scholz expressed his concern about the build-up of Russian troops at the border with Ukraine in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, a German government spokesperson said.

The spokesman explained: “The German Chancellor expressed his concern about the situation and spoke about the urgent need for de-escalation.”

With Mrs Merkel stepping down after 16 years at the helm, the task facing Mr Scholz is considerable, especially given the precarious state of Germany’s economy.

(More to follow)

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