US President Donald Trump has welcomed German Chancellor Angela Merkel in the White House for the first face-to-face meeting between two leaders known for holding opposing views on a host of issues. <br/><br/>Items on the agenda for yesterday's meeting included the fight against Islamic State terror group, strengthening the NATO alliance and resolving Ukraine's conflict with Russia. <br/><br/>At the start of her remarks in a joint press conference, Merkel said it was much better to talk to one another and not about one another. Trump had repeatedly bashed Merkel during his presidential campaign last year, accusing her of ruining Germany for allowing an influx of refugees from Syria.<br/><br/>Trump reaffirmed Washington's strong support for NATO but also reiterated his stance that member countries in the alliance need to pay their fair share for the cost of defence. <br/><br/>In response, Merkel said she was encouraged that Trump backed NATO, stressed its vital role and pledged that Germany will increase its own payments. The two leaders also discussed the situation in Afghanistan and Ukraine.<br/>