GERMANY:German chancellor Angela Merkel said yesterday she wanted a new co-operation agreement between the EU and Russia to include commitments from Moscow that it would be a reliable provider of energy.
"Russia was a dependable delivery partner in the past. But we are wrestling with Russia right now about strengthening this [ commitment] . . ." Dr Merkel told ZDF TV.
The EU obtains about a quarter of its gas from Russia. Over the coming months, Dr Merkel will be leading efforts to develop a long-term energy strategy for the EU.