6 Jul 2022 15:38

Putin extends condolences over OPEC Secretary General's death

MOSCOW. July 6 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended condolences over the death of OPEC Secretary General Mohammad Barkindo, according to a statement published on the Kremlin website.

"He rightfully earned high international prestige with long and effective work in OPEC. His personal contribution to the creation of a unique interaction mechanism, OPEC+, which is bound to ensure the stable and effective functioning of the global oil market to the benefit of oil producers and buyers, has a special significance," Putin said in his telegram to Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari.

"Russia will always remember Mohammad Barkindo as a true friend of our country. Please convey my sympathy and support to the family and friends of the deceased and all citizens of Nigeria," Putin said.

Barkindo, a native of Nigeria, died at the age of 63 on Tuesday night. Shortly before his death, he addressed an oil and gas conference in Nigeria. Born on April 20, 1959, Barkindo was elected OPEC Secretary General in summer 2016. His second term of office was due to expire at the end of July.