World Press on Vladimir Putin's visit to Germany (April 10, 2013)

'Merkel and Putin: Nice Greeting, Tough Meeting' ('Merkel und Putin: Harmonischer Auftritt, schwieriges Treffen'), a article with such a headline was published recently by Der Spiegel. 

The meeting between the Russian president and the German chancellor was not expected be a harmonious one, the article reads. While President Putin talked about successful economic cooperation between the two nations, the head of the German cabinet touched upon another topic.

Angela Merkel underlined that both Germany and Russia are interested in establishment of a strong civil society in the post-Soviet country. She also expressed concern over the recent police search at the offices of German non-governmental organizations working in Russia, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation. 

The Putin's visit to Hannover was marred by a protest demonstration attended by some 350 people, Der Speigel notes. Moreover, the head of the Green Party, Claudia Roth, called Vladimir Putin a 'tyrant', who is trying to undermine the work of non-governmental organizations through constant pressure.

It seems like Germany is in a difficult position. It's clear the country does not want to lose its strategic partnership with Russia, but Vladimir Putin with his repressions is becoming a serious problem for further development of mutual ties.