German former chancellor Gerhard Schröder (SPD) has hit back at criticism over his new involvement in the Russian oil company Rosneft on August 31, 2017.
Speaking at an SPD campaign rally in Lower Saxony, the retired politician defended his recently-announced decision to assume a position on the board of the enterprise.
«I will do it. This is about my life, over which I - and not the German press - have control!» Schröder said.
He added that he wanted to contribute to ensuring Germany's and Europe's energy security in the role.
Schröder denied that Rosneft constituted the «extended arm of the Russian government,» noting that several international public and private entities such as BP, the state of Qatar and Glencore held shares of the country's largest oil producer.
Schröder has attracted criticism for his close ties with Russia from some quarters in Germany.
The recent outbursts were fueled by the news that he will join Rosneft's board and may even become its chairman.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) has been amongst those who have prominently spoken out against her predecessor's corporate ambitions in Russia.
Schröder reacted unfazed when questioned by audience members over his response to such attacks.
He argued that it was economically and politically imprudent to isolate Moscow.
«The demonization of Russia does not help anybody,» said Gerhard Schröder.
