New German FM interested in friendly relations with Russia

New German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel expressed interest in developing friendly relations and partnership with Russia, a spokesman for the German Foreign Ministry Martin Schaefer said.

"Russia is the most important neighbor of Europe. Of course, the country is included on the agenda of the new foreign minister. It is the most important partner for negotiations," Sputnik cited him as saying.

Earlier on Friday, German President Joachim Gauck relieved Frank-Walter Steinmeier in a ceremony from the post of the foreign minister and named Gabriel as the successor.