Russia open to partners from U.S.; currently no discussions regarding return to specific projects - Deputy PM

MOSCOW. Oct 28 (Interfax) - Russia is open to joint projects with the United States, though there are currently no exact discussions on this, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak told reporters on the sidelines of the third Russia-Africa summit.

"As you know, our position has always been one of openness toward foreign partners and foreign investment. Whether or not they return depends, first and foremost, on them," Novak said.

When asked whether there were any discussions regarding the potential return of the U.S. companies Chevron Corp. and ExxonMobil to Russia, Novak replied that, "There are no negotiations underway currently."

The previous day, the Financial Times, citing sources, reported that the U.S. administration was discussing the idea of U.S. companies participating in Russian projects as part of negotiations with Russia on Ukraine. In particular, the newspaper said the idea is for major Russian and U.S. oil companies to resume joint work off the coast of Sakhalin. The possibility of U.S. participation in a plan to resume oil supplies to Europe via the Druzhba oil pipeline is also being discussed.