TBILISI, Aug. 24 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) and NATO are not threats to Russia, and Germany is willing to have good relations with Russia, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said here Friday.

"Germany wants to develop good relations not only with Georgia, Azerbaijan and Ukraine, but with Russia as well," she said during a meeting with students at Tbilisi State University.

Europe and Russia had good cooperation in the past and learned a lot from each other, she added.

Europe cannot refuse to cooperate with Russia on oil and gas because Russian gas is cheaper for Europe than gas from other countries, she stressed.

Relations between Russia and the West have deteriorated over the poisoning of a former Russian spy in Britain earlier this year. London accused Moscow of involvement in the attack, while Moscow has denied the charge.

As to when Georgia will be admitted into the EU and NATO, Merkel said they cannot make hasty promises because it will be a gradual process.

"We are considering the accession of Western Balkan countries," she said. "But we cannot yet speak about the quick accession of Georgia and Ukraine."

Merkel on Thursday started her maiden visit to Georgia, which is the first stop of her South Caucasus tour. She will also visit Armenia and Azerbaijan.