Germany stands strongly against Russia's exclusion from G8

German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said that world leaders must work together calmly in light of recent developments in Ukraine.

According to Steinmeier, world leaders should leave Russia's right to be a member of the Group of Eight, as dialogue with Moscow will be possible only within the framework of Russia's participation in the G8.

"The format of the Group of Eight is the only opportunity to speak directly with Russia," said Steinmeier in an interview with ARD channel.

The rumors on Russia's exclusion from the G8, appeared March 2, when a number of states have suspended their preparations for the summit in Sochi. French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said in an interview with reporters that Russia could be excluded from the G8 as the country violated the principle of association. In addition, the French authorities urged the Russian leadership to resort to assistance of mediators in resolving the Ukrainian question - UN, OSCE or foreign states.