Former Chancellor Schröder determined to testify on Nord Stream 2 pipeline

Berlin, July 16 (ČTK correspondent) - Former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder is finally determined to testify before the investigative committee of the state parliament of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which is examining the construction of the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. He had previously refused, citing his health, the DPA news agency reported. Schröder wants to speak to committee members only remotely via the internet, and without the public present.

Schröder, who is 81, was due to testify before the investigative committee in the state parliament in Schwerin in mid-January. The lawmakers are examining possible Russian influence on regional politicians who approved the construction of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline connecting Germany and Russia across the Baltic Sea.

Schröder cancelled his appearance before the committee, citing his poor health. According to a statement at the time, he was suffering from typical symptoms of burnout syndrome, including profound exhaustion, lack of energy and sleep disorders. Schröder’s appearance in May at the election of a new premier of the state of Lower Saxony therefore attracted media attention. Before becoming federal chancellor, Schröder himself served as premier of Lower Saxony for eight years.

The state parliament committee rejected Schröder’s apology and is demanding an official medical report by August 31. The former chancellor responded that he was willing to testify before the committee despite his health. He wants to appear remotely on October 17. He also set another condition: "The broadcast will take place without the public."

The Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline was completed in 2021, but no gas ever flowed through it. It was not put into commercial operation because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Along with the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, which entered service in 2011, Nord Stream 2’s pipes were damaged in a series of explosions in September 2022.

Schröder is seen as highly controversial in Germany. After leaving high-level politics, he worked for companies including Nord Stream 2 and Rosneft, and also sought a seat on Gazprom’s supervisory board. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, he did not condemn Moscow for its military aggression, criticised sanctions against Russia and refused to step down from his positions at Russian state-owned companies. Schröder also makes no secret of his friendship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. An attempt by the Social Democrats to expel their former chairman over his pro-Russian views failed.