Appearing at the inauguration ceremony, Fischer said, "the opening of the German Consulate General became a graphic example of the actively developing relations between Russia and Germany." "In June 1941, Nazi Germany deceitfully attacked the Soviet Union. The sorrows and sufferings of your people are unforgettable. But we have drawn conclusions from our historical experience and believe it necessary to strengthen friendship between our countries," said Fischer.
The German foreign minister stressed, "an important historic date is forthcoming". "On May 1st, new members will be joining the European Union, so the Kaliningrad region will be bordering on the European Union. This is a unique chance not only for Russians but also for us, Europeans." Fischer is flying to Moscow later in the day.
