German Economy Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg Thursday said he is hoping for a positive solution regarding the government-backed takeover of Opel through Magna International (MGA).

"I am hoping for a good European solution," he said. It is important to preserve EU law, he said, but added he doesn't expect a veto from the European Commission.

The European Commission Wednesday repeated its warning to Germany that it will carefully scrutinize any state aid provided to carmaker General Motor Co.'s European arm, Adam Opel GmbH to ensure it follows the European Union's strict rules on state aid.

Guttenberg also said he still thinks there is some room for improvement with regard to the details of the takeover. It is still possible that Magna improves its offer until the closing.

-By Nico Schmidt, Dow Jones Newswires; +49 69 29725 500; djnews.frankfurt@dowjones.com