"Traditionally, we share good relations. Despite the difficult political situation, we are bound to talk to each other rather than about each other… In the agricultural sector, as well as other areas, we must cooperate by sharing experience and collaborate in research and development," Schmidt told reporters.
The minister said that he was grateful for Russia's readiness to practically resolve issues of cooperation between the two countries and ensure that there are investment opportunities.
"Particularly significant cooperation experience between our countries has been accumulated by medium enterprises, the so-called hidden champions, they can occupy the leading position in global markets," he added.
Since 2014, relations between Russia and the West, including Germany, deteriorated amid the crisis in Ukraine. Brussels, Washington and their allies have introduced several rounds of anti-Russia sanctions since Crimea reunified with Russia in 2014 and over Moscow's alleged involvement in the Ukrainian conflict. Russia has repeatedly refuted the allegations, warning that the Western sanctions are counterproductive and undermine global stability.
Moscow and Berlin have been continuing active bilateral cooperation in the political and business areas, despite the cooling in relations.
