As part of a series to celebrate the toy's 50th birthday, manufacturer Mattel has brought out a version modelled on the German chancellor. The doll wears the politician's tailored trouser suit and her trademark blonde bob, but the resemblance ends there: its tiny waistline is more Heidi Klum than Angela Merkel and its smiling face is free of the worry lines produced when you are trying to fight economic crisis in Europe's largest economy.

A spokeswoman for Mattel said that like Barbie, Merkel embodied the dreams of many girls who want to get on in the world. "She's simply a good role model for girls around the world," she said.

The new doll was presented this week at the 60th annual international toy fair in the southern German city of Nuremberg. It will soon be available in shops for €20 (£17.50).

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