Merkel: "Intensive" talks over possible rescue for Lufthansa

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Wednesday that her government is in 'œintensive talks'ť with Lufthansa and the European Commission over a potential bailout for the airline, whose business has dwindled due to the virus outbreak.

Merkel said that an agreement could come 'œshortly,'ť but added that any deal 'œhas to be completed.'ť

The dpa news agency reported that Lufthansa shares rose in after-hours trading on the back of a media report that a deal had been reached, but the government and the company would not comment.