Gas export liberalization decision requires close analysis, no need to rush - Timchenko
SOCHI. May 10 (Interfax) - Gennady Timchenko, one of the co-owners of independent gas producer Novatek , recognizes the interest companies in the industry have for gas exports, but emphasizes the need to carefully analyze this step.
"Who would refuse to export gas, at a price significantly above that on the domestic market? Everyone has an interest, but it is not a fact that we should demand this today. This must be very seriously weighed in our scales. Gazprom , its infrastructure, how all this works. It is a complicated issue. Moreover, it must not be approached as: 'We want it. Let's export.' That's not the way it works in our country," Timchenko told journalists.
Timchenko said he had not approached the Russian leadership with a request to allow Novatek to export gas to Europe via conclusion of a contract between Novatek Gas and Power and Gazprom Export.
"I am a company co-owner. All questions [should be addressed to Novatek CEO Leonid] Mikhelson," Timchenko said when asked whether Novatek was negotiating with Gazprom on the matter.