Russian Energy Ministry hopes reason will prevail over desire to impose sanctions on Nord Stream 2
XIAMEN. Sept 5 (Interfax) - Russia's Energy Ministry hopes that reason will prevail over the desire to impose sanctions, and Europe will not say no to the already partially financed Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, Energy Minister Alexander Novak told reporters.
"First of all, we proceed from the assumption that our European partners have a stake in the implementation of this project. Secondly, this project has already begun and is already partially financed, including by project participants. It's important for Europe foremost in terms of Europe's growing demand, ensuring energy security," Novak said.
"Therefore, of course, a great deal depends on the position of our European partners. We will hope that reason will prevail here above all, and not some sort of transitory ambitions that we see today from those who pass such laws, including ones restricting competition on the European market. In my view, these laws are foremost aimed against European consumers and competition on the European market," Novak said.
This could be one of the issues that will be discussed at a meeting that Novak is scheduled to have with European Commission Vice President in charge of Energy Union Maros Sefcovic in October.