“It is clear – the association agreements with Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova are not directed against Russia; on the contrary, this is about closer links between the economic areas. And in this regard, Russia should not be excluded,” Merkel said, adding that the EU would like to have good partnership relations with Russia.
Merkel also stressed the importance of maintaining a dialogue on trade cooperation between the EU and Russia, as well as between the EU and the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU).
Last Sunday, Merkel accused Russia of creating obstacles for Moldova, Georgia and Ukraine, saying Russia prevented the three countries from their integration into the EU internal market. The statement was made after Russia had urged the countries to think carefully about their EU integration plan.
The relations between Russia and the West have seen a sharp decline after the escalation of the Ukrainian crisis and Crimea’s reunification with Russia in March.
Germany’s stance on Russia has been criticized by German politicians, businessmen and public figures. However, Merkel said late November that the sanctions would not be lifted until the Ukrainian crisis was resolved.
