Former German Chancellor speaks about his friendship with Vladimir Putin.

In an interview with the newspaper Rheinische, former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder spoke about his work at Rosneft, as well as his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Photo: Sputnik

According to Schroeder, chairing the board of directors of a Russian oil and gas company is an "interesting challenge," and money isn't particularly important there.

"And you know, if I were sitting on the board of directors of an American company, not a Russian one, then perhaps everyone would say: 'Yes, that's great.' There's an element of hypocrisy in this criticism," he remarked.

Schroeder emphasized that he has a good relationship with Rosneft and Russia in general – for the benefit of Europe, and that Germany will ultimately feel the benefits.

The journalist from the Rheinische Post noted that Rosneft was under sanctions. Schroeder responded that he opposed the sanctions and that, in his opinion, they would eventually be lifted.

The former Prime Minister also affirmed that he and President Putin are friends.

"Yes, that's right. And it will be like that. I trust Vladimir Putin," he said.

Schroeder explained that friendship means being able to share your opinions and dare to express criticism, but only directly between two people face-to-face.

According to Schroeder, the restoration of relations between Russia and Germany is impossible without Putin.

"Managing Russia is not a simple task. First of all, you should start from the reality that things won't get any better after Putin. One step towards rapprochement is the gradual lifting of mutual sanctions," he explained.

According to Sputnik