Our friendship was based on my payouts. That wasn't a friendship when - as, for example, it's me, my friends, we are friends for many years, and it doesn't matter for me what the position is, where they work; we simply are friends. And with Mr. Berezovsky, our friendship was based on my payoffs.

The quote "Our friendship was based on my payouts. That wasn't a friendship when - as, for example, it's me, my friends, we are friends for many years, and it doesn't matter for me what the position is, where they work; we simply are friends. And with Mr. Berezovsky, our friendship was based on my payoffs" by Roman Abramovich reflects on the difference between genuine friendship and a relationship based on transactional or financial arrangements. Abramovich is drawing a distinction between the longstanding, sincere friendships he has built with others, where emotional connection is the primary bond, and his relationship with Berezovsky, which he sees as primarily based on financial exchanges or obligations.

In this context, Abramovich is highlighting that true friendship goes beyond material or financial transactions. He contrasts the deep, enduring friendships he values—where the connection is built on mutual respect and shared history—with the type of relationship he had with Berezovsky, which was founded more on his financial contributions or support. Abramovich seems to imply that the latter does not qualify as true friendship, as it lacked the emotional and personal elements that define meaningful relationships.

The origin of this quote comes from Roman Abramovich, a Russian billionaire and businessman, known for his ties to the oil industry and his ownership of the Chelsea Football Club. His relationship with fellow Russian businessman Berezovsky was famously complex, with their connection involving both personal and business dealings. This quote reflects Abramovich's perspective on the nature of his relationship with Berezovsky, suggesting that it was more transactional than truly based on mutual trust or affection.

Ultimately, Abramovich's quote serves as a reflection on the nature of friendship and the ways in which some relationships, particularly those involving money or power, can be mistaken for genuine bonds. It emphasizes the idea that true friendship is built on shared values and personal connection, not on financial transactions or mutual benefit.