Russian energy min denies Gazprom paying no divs in 2014

BELGRADE, Oct 16 (PRIME) -- Russia’s Energy Minister Alexander Novak has heard no proposals that gas giant Gazprom should not pay 2014 dividends, he told reporters Thursday.

“I have heard no such suggestions,” Novak said, pointing out that the company’s dividend policy is defined by the board of directors. “The issue will be considered at a board of directors meeting and by the Russian government, if such ideas occur. But I have heard none of them.”

Earlier on Thursday, business daily Vedomosti reported citing Alexander Ivannikov, deputy head of Gazprom’s financial and economic department, that there is a possibility of the government allowing Gazprom to use the 2014 dividends, which the company is to pay to the state, on corporate needs. The dividends may amount to 152.2 billion rubles this year.

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