schröder Cites Exhaustion, Unable to Testify in Nord Stream 2 Inquiry
Berlin – Former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, 80, will not appear as a witness before teh parliamentary inquiry committee investigating the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, citing exhaustion and a lack of energy, according to his physician. The decision prevents Schröder from providing testimony regarding his involvement with the controversial project and his ongoing relationship with Russian energy interests.
The U-Committee, formally known as the Committee on Energy, Climate Protection, Economy and Growth, launched its investigation to examine potential flaws in GermanyS energy policy and the circumstances surrounding the certification of the nord Stream 2 pipeline following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Schröder’s testimony was considered crucial due to his long-standing ties to Gazprom and his role as a lobbyist for the pipeline project even after leaving office in 2005. His inability to appear raises questions about the committee’s ability to fully assess the extent of external influence on German energy decisions.
Schröder served as Federal Chancellor from 1998 to 2005 and has faced meaningful criticism for his continued association with Russia, notably after the commencement of the war in Ukraine. He has repeatedly defended his involvement with Nord Stream 2, maintaining it was a commercial project and not a political one. The committee aimed to explore the financial benefits Schröder received from his positions with Russian energy companies and whether these influenced his political decisions while in office.
The inquiry committee is expected to continue its work with othre witnesses, including government officials and industry representatives. The findings of the investigation could lead to policy changes regarding lobbying regulations and energy security measures.
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