Kyrgyz president, Gazprom CEO discuss gas infrastructure overhaul, gasification
BISHKEK. Sept 1 (Interfax) - Kyrgyzstan President Almazbek Atambayev and Gazprom CEO Alexei Miller discussed the Russian gas giant's activities in the Central Asian country at a meeting in Bishkek on August 31, the president's press service told Interfax on Tuesday.
The meeting covered the company's efforts to develop the gas distribution system in the country and reconstruct gas supply infrastructure, regional gasification and construction of trunk gas pipelines, a spokesman said.
Atambayev said at the meeting that he is pleased with implementation of planned measures on schedule and in accordance with agreements, remarking that "this cannot but please, such progress, the work that is being done by Gazprom in Kyrgyzstan, the investment."
Atambayev also stressed the need for the company's efficient and high quality work in the country, noting the importance of its activities in ensuring the country's energy independence.
Miller told the president about the company's compliance with all obligations, including the start of construction on the final section of a trunk gas pipeline running through Kyrgyzstan, which will be completed in 2016, making it possible to nearly double capabilities to supply gas to the northern part of the country.
Miller said this work is being done as part of a general plan for gas supplies to and gasification of Kyrgyzstan to 2030 that is being implemented by the company.
"We're working strictly according to schedule. We're planning to hold hearings with the country's government where we will report on the current preparations for the winter. We're working in all areas. I'm confident that we will get through the coming winter just as reliably as last year," Miller said.
Atambayev and Miller also discussed the implementation of Gazprom's socially-oriented programs in Kyrgyzstan, the press service said.
