Min: Solution of disputes to build Gazprom, Naftogaz partnership

BELGRADE, Oct 21 (PRIME) -- Russia thinks that only solution of legal disputes between Russian gas giant Gazprom and Ukrainian energy holding Naftogaz Ukrainy should become the basis of gas partnership between the two companies starting from 2020, Energy Minister Alexander Novak told reporters on October 20.

“We are waiting for them (Ukraine)…to study this problem and to evaluate our suggestion, as we think that it is the only real basis for normal relations in the future after January 1, 2020. We need that to continue cooperation and to work in accordance with the legislation that Ukraine is to adopt. Settlement of all disputes is important, otherwise it would be rather tough and difficult to cooperate,” he said.

Moscow is yet to receive and statements from Ukraine on the matter, he said.

Previously, Gazprom CEO Alexei Miller told Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev that the company notified Ukraine and the E.U. that all legal disputes with Naftogaz Ukrainy should be settled before the two companies sign a new contract for transit of Russian gas to the E.U.

Current gas supply and transit contracts of Russia and Ukraine expire at the end of 2019.

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