Former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder is expected to participate in the North Stream 2 investigation committee of the Schwerin State Parliament, according to a document obtained by “Der Spiegel”. His legal counsel recently communicated the willingness to provide testimony via email to committee chairman Sebastian Ehlers (CDU).
While Schröder will not be present in person for the scheduled hearing on October 17th, he has expressed agreement to a video testimony from his office in Hanover. However, his legal representation has stipulated conditions for the virtual appearance. Notably, the transmission is to be conducted without public access and the session can be paused if necessary.
The communication cites Schröder’s ongoing health concerns as a factor in his request. The document indicates he is not presently equipped to handle the physical and psychological demands of a protracted and public examination. Consequently, a video format will allow for discussion regarding the feasibility of resuming the testimony, taking into consideration general humanitarian considerations.
Schröder has served as Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Nord Stream 2 AG since 2016 and is considered a key witness in the Schwerin investigation committee. The committee’s inquiry focuses, in part, on the role of the controversial “Climate and Environmental Protection MV” foundation.