Rheinmetall to Become Champion Partner of Borussia Dortmund

German Economy Minister Robert Habeck Welcomes Cooperation

BERLIN May 29 (Reuters) - German Economy Minister Robert Habeck said on Wednesday that armsmaker Rheinmetall's decision to become a sponsor of soccer club Borussia Dortmund is a positive step.

Rheinmetall's CEO Armin Papperger has defended the deal, saying that the company is not a weapons manufacturer but a "technology group".

However, critics have accused Rheinmetall of "sportswashing" its image by associating itself with a popular football club.

Borussia Dortmund is one of Germany's most successful football clubs, with a large and passionate fan base.

The club has a long history of social responsibility and has been involved in a number of charitable initiatives.

Rheinmetall is a German defense company that produces a range of weapons and military equipment.

The company has been involved in a number of controversies in recent years, including allegations of corruption and human rights abuses.