15 Apr 2011 17:33

Sechin could strengthen influence at Rosneft after quitting board

MOSCOW. April 15 (Interfax) - Russian Deputy Prime Minister Igor Sechin could strengthen his influence at Rosneft after quitting its board of directors.

"He will preserve his [influence] absolutely, and I think even strengthen it," Rosneft chief Eduard Khudainatov told reporters.

"Igor Ivanovich [Sechin] is responsible in the cabinet for fuel and energy. We as a government-related company are directly accountable to the government via directives, via other administrative levers. We're under Igor Ivanovich's constant, everyday control," he said.

Khudainatov did not say who might replace Sechin on the Rosneft board. "We'll see who gets elected elect at the AGM on June 10," he said.