The visit of Vice-Chancellor and Minister of Economics of Germany Sigmar Gabriel to the capital of Russia testifies about the fact that Germany is rethinking its relations with Russia, analysts of the American research center.

"The official purpose of the visit was to discuss bilateral trade, but because trade issues are associated with the punishment of the EU against Russia, the meeting suggests that Berlin is seeking ways of easing or even lifting of the current penalties against capital of Russia ", - reported in the publication on the Internet office of Stratfor.

punishment of the EU complicated the export of items to Russia. In the first part of 2015 supplies of German products to the site of the Russian Federation decreased by 31, 5% compared with the same period last year. However, economic growth in the EU is still fragile, and Berlin seeks to diversify its exports, say analysts of the centre.

Berlin was also interested in strengthening energy ties with Moscow. Before Sigmar Gabriel discussed with the head of "Gazprom" new infrastructure project that includes the extension of the gas pipeline " Nord stream ", reminds Stratfor.

in addition, Germany is considering the Russian Federation as a key player in resolving the Syrian downs, which is specifically linked with the influx of immigrants in the European Union. The German position against the government of Bashar al-Assad has always been softer than other Western European countries and the United States, analysts say.

Russia, for its part, is interested in the dialogue with Germany and led by Gabriel of the Social democratic party, which can increase your popularity on the background of decreasing sympathies who came to the elections for the Christian democratic Union Merkel, Stratfor underlines.

in opinion of analysts, Germany could be the reasons for softening his position in relation to Moscow, as in recent months the situation in Ukraine remained stable. Countries such as Italy and France only applauded the improved relations with Russia. However, the United States and the vast number of countries in Central and Eastern Europe continue to insist on " hard lines ", Stratfor writes.

sections: Politics