Co-operation driven by mutual interest

Belarus ready to discuss expansion of Russian oil and gas supply
By Vladimir Khromov

On meeting the President of NK Rosneft JSC, Igor Sechin, and the President of NK RussNeft JSC, Mikhail Gutseriev, President Lukashenko notes that Belarus is ready to discuss expanding supplies of Russian oil and gas.

According to Mr. Lukashenko, no obstacles exist in developing co-operation with these companies. He emphasised, “If terms are favourable, better than other companies are offering, we’ll take a bigger volume of oil for processing. We have no problems at all. As for supplies of oil products, let’s negotiate these issues together. You’re aware of our oil refineries, which are unlikely to have any problems.”

Mr. Lukashenko has proposed that the Russian enterprises join in chemical industry ventures. “We have a good range of petrochemical products, alongside experience and traditions in the production of nitrogen fertilisers. You have 50bn cubic metres of gas which you don’t sell overseas. I think, here, within the Union State, we could reach an agreement. You could have some 3bn cubic metres processed if we build a new plant. A site has already been prepared, so you could supply gas. We could agree on corporatisation of the plant and on exports, which would benefit us economically,” said the Belarusian leader, adding that, if necessary, he is ready to discuss this topic with the Russian President.

“There are plenty of other projects too,” stressed the Head of State. “We’re ready to open the door for you. We want you to work here efficiently and, of course, lucratively. Importantly, we should enjoy slightly better terms than other companies. I think you’ll be able to interest Belarus as you produce such large volumes of oil and gas. Moreover, major development projects are in the pipeline.”

Mr. Sechin thanked the Belarusian President for his personal attention in the projects and noted that Rosneft is already working in Belarus, supplying around half of the oil being processed at Belarusian oil refineries. “I absolutely confirm that the principles guiding us in our work with strategic Belarusian partners are trust, mutual respect and consideration of mutual interests. We are ready to fully share profits with our partners and create long-term projects,” Mr. Sechin asserted.
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