21 Oct 2009 17:46

Germany expects Nord Stream construction to begin in spring

MOSCOW. Oct 21 (Interfax) - German businesses expect the construction of the Nord Stream gas pipeline to begin in spring 2010, Klaus Mangold, chairman of the Eastern Committee of German Industry, has said.

"We hope the construction of the pipeline will begin in spring 2010," Mangold said after German businessmen met with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.

Asked whether the number of participants in the project could be enlarged, Mangold said, "We have no concrete plans to enlarge the partnership. But we are open to new partners."