12.05.03

Ukraine, Russia may enlarge gas transit to Europe - Ruhrgas

Ukraine and Russia may significantly enlarge the amount of gas production and transit to Europe across Ukraine, a representative of Germany's Ruhrgas told Naftogaz Ukrainy and Gazprom at the tripartite negotiations on the gas transport consortium in Kyiv.

Ukrainian Fuel and Energy Minister Serhiy Yermilov informed the press about the statement on Thursday.

"That is nearly the most essential issue for the future gas transport consortium," the minister said. He noted that Ukraine and Russia had obtained very important information that the demand for gas in Europe will increase.

The negotiations also centered on possible models of the future consortium, Yermilov said. It was agreed to hold a tripartite summit in late May. On Wednesday the tripartite meeting was held on the corporate level with the participation of experts, he said.