German Chancellor Angela Merkel says not worried about EU-Turkey refugee deal

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Wednesday she was not worried about the refugee pact between the European Union and Turkey, but more time was needed to address sticking points on visa liberalisation for Ankara.

"I am not concerned, we just need more time," Merkel told reporters after a cabinet meeting just outside Berlin.

The EU has promised visa-free travel for Turks as part of the migrant deal provided Ankara fulfils conditions including changes to its broad anti-terrorism laws. So far Turkey has said it cannot do this as it is fighting the dual threat from Islamic State and Kurdish militants.