German leader casts doubt over Obama's grand Berlin entrance

"It is unusual to do electioneering abroad," spokesman Thomas Steg said. "It is unusual to hold election rallies abroad. No German candidate for high office would even think of using the National Mall (in Washington) or Red Square in Moscow for a rally because it would not be seen as appropriate."

Speaking from Japan, where Mrs Merkel is taking part in the G8 meeting, Mr Steg said it was up to Senator Obama to decide what was "in good taste" but added that the Chancellor found the idea "a bit odd".