The Hill News

President Obama will host German Chancellor Angela Merkel for an official state visit in June, the White House said Monday.

Merkel and her husband will visit the White House on June 7 for an official visit and state dinner, the fourth of Obama's administration.

"The chancellor’s visit underscores the fundamental importance of the U.S.-German alliance, the depth of the friendship between our people, and our commitment to move forward together on behalf of our shared interests and values," the White House said in a statement announcing the visit. "The president and the chancellor will discuss the broad array of issues on which the United States and Germany cooperate closely, including in Afghanistan, the Middle East, Iran, and on promoting human rights and global economic stability and growth."

The visit is the first of its kind by a German leader since 1992, the White House said. Merkel will also formally be presented with the Medal of F! reedom she was awarded in 2010, which she was unable to receive at a ceremony last year.

Obama previously hosted state dinners for the leaders of India, Mexico and China.