Opening of German consulate in Kaliningrad is proof of close Russian-German relations

The opening of the German consulate in Kaliningrad is proof of the trust and good relations that exist between Russia and Germany. As a Rosbalt correspondent reports, this was announced by German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer at a ceremony to introduce German Consul to Kaliningrad Cornelius Zommer.

'We are looking to the future without forgetting the past and even learning from it, aiming to develop our relations with Russia on a basis of understanding and neighborliness,' Mr Fischer said. 'The opening of this consulate now, when those countries that border on the Kaliningrad Region are preparing to join the EU, is a great opportunity for the region which we should make the most of. The consulate's aim is to help the region resolve any problems which may arise as a result of this process and to help stimulate economic growth,' the minister explained.

In Mr Fischer's opinion, Kaliningrad could and should be open to the whole world as a place where Russia collaborates with a united Europe. 'Germany will do everything possible to make sure this happens,' he said.