PARIS, December 10. /TASS/. Russian gas supplies to Germany have been a longstanding tradition that benefited both parties, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during an interview with France 2 TV Channel.

"Gas trade with Russia has a deep-rooted tradition. It began during the Cold War and continued throughout my time in office. I do not think it was a mistake because we obtained Russian gas at a favorable price," Merkel said.

"This was a mutually advantageous situation," she continued. Germany "had to source and purchase more expensive gas from other suppliers because prices soared," the former chancellor explained. "But it would have been the same if we had stopped [buying Russian gas] earlier, during my tenure," Merkel remarked. "I believe it is reasonable to procure the most affordable gas," she added.

Merkel also said in an earlier interview with the BBC that she does not regret approving the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline despite opposition from Washington.

Merkel served as German Chancellor from 2005 to 2021.