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BERLIN (Reuters) – Germany’s economy ministry has asked the country’s intelligence agency BfV to investigate two senior German officials it fears have links to Russia.
Die Zeit, citing its own findings, said economy ministry officials contacted the BfV in the spring to discuss issues such as the bailout of utility Uniper (UN01.DE) and the state’s intervention in Gazprom Germania. He said he had been contacted about the official’s alleged pro-Russian stance.read more
Die Zeit did not name the people involved.
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The BfV investigated the officials’ backgrounds, personal relationships and travel records, but so far found no hard evidence of espionage or corruption, reports Die Zeit.
The Ministry of Economy said it would not comment on specific cases, but maintained close contact with the BfV since the start of the legislative period, as its work is under particular scrutiny due to its responsibility for energy security. said it does.
“In addition, the new government has completely reviewed the previous government’s policy toward Russia,” said a spokesperson for the economy ministry.
“All efforts of the new administration are aimed at reducing Russia’s dependence on gas and this policy is being strictly implemented,” the spokesperson said.
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Reported by Miranda Murray.Editing by Jane Merriman
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