German companies oppose sanctions against Russia

It would be extremely beneficial for the German economy to end sanctions against Russia, as German companies need to trade with Russia. First of all, this concerns the German automotive industry, which cannot do without an important Russian market, especially after the Volkswagen VW scandal.

“We need Russia, not only economically, but also as a strategic partner to jointly advance in solving global problems,” said Alfred Gaffal, President of the Bavarian Business Association, Handelsblatt. “In addition, the situation in Syria cannot be dealt with without Russia,” Gaffal said.

The first signals of indignation are given by German manufacturers of industrial goods, creating conditions for sanctions against Russia to be lifted. “That said, we welcome any initiative to consider finding a peaceful solution for Syria as a result of closer cooperation with Russia and would like to start negotiations with President Putin,” added Gaffal.

In recent months, the Committee on Economic Relations has regularly pointed out the consequences of the sanctions, but still cannot influence German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The German Committee cannot accept that the sanctions against Moscow have had the expected political effect.

And in connection with the expected consequences of the Volkswagen scandal, the situation is simply critical for the German auto industry, so Vice-Chancellor Sigmar Gabriel, who is also the Minister of Economy and Energy, has called for the lifting of the sanctions. However, the German political party CDU is opposed: Norbert Rottgen and Chancellery Minister Peter Allmaier see no need to change course.