There are no signals about the possible lifting of anti-Russian sanctions, but the Norman Four summit in Paris could contribute to improving relations between Russia and Europe, German Brandenburg Economic and Energy Minister Jorg Steinbach told.
“As regards the latter (lifting the sanctions), at the moment, unfortunately, I am pessimistic. I do not see any rapprochement (in positions) either on the part of Mr. Putin to Europe, or vice versa. What happened in Crimea, is perceived and interpreted by the parties differently”, – Steinbach said.
The Minister noted that there are two sides to the issue of sanctions – ordinary people and companies that are experiencing their negative influence, and “big politics”, therefore, the settlement of differences between the Russian Federation and the EU should remain a priority.
“Maybe something will budge with the new president of Ukraine. But in the political sense, there is a need to adhere to those requirements that are enshrined in the Minsk agreements”, – Steinbach continued.
In this regard, he drew attention to the upcoming summit of the “Norman Four”, which will be held on December 9 in Paris.
“I very much hope for this (that the summit will contribute to improving relations between Russia and the EU). I believe in the effectiveness of dialogue, and we have not talked to each other for a long time. I think that only when people talk to each other, you can find constructive solutions, and this is what lies at the heart of the relationship between people, for example, between (German Chancellor Angela) Merkel and Putin. People talk on a personal level differently than how they should do it on an official level. If you want to eliminate this difference, you need to communicate, communicate and communicate again”, – the German politician said.
When asked about the impact of sanctions on the economy of Brandenburg, the Minister noted that it is “primarily indirect”. “We have a relatively small foreign trade potential. Those firms that have joint projects, which do not have access to financing due to sanctions, suffer losses”, – the Minister explained.