You're reading: Merkel urges German lawmakers to back Greece

BERLIN — Chancellor Angela Merkel is urging German lawmakers to support the new Greek rescue package — though she concedes that there is no "100 percent guarantee" it will succeed.

Merkel addressed Parliament ahead of a vote later Monday on the package that centers on a second €130 billion ($173 billion) bailout.

Merkel told lawmakers the package carries opportunities that outweigh the risks, and it would be irresponsible to abandon Greece now. She said that as chancellor she has to take risks "but I cannot embark on adventures."

Merkel says it is "indispensable" that the International Monetary Fund continue to make a significant contribution to rescuing Greece.

The package is expected to win wide approval, with two opposition parties in favor.