Naftogaz, Equinor discuss gas purchases, possible development of production in Ukraine

MOSCOW. Dec 5 (Interfax) - Ukraine's Naftogaz and Norway's Equinor have discussed gas purchases and the potential development of production in Ukraine, Ukrainian media said, quoting a Naftogaz press release.

The heads of the two companies, Alexei Chernyshov and Anders Opedal, held a meeting on December 2.

"We have reached the first agreements with Equinor regarding the purchase of additional gas required to pass the toughest heating season in Ukrainian history. We hope for special purchase conditions and further reservation of the volume necessary to get through the winter season," Chernyshov was quoted as saying.

Chernyshov held a meeting with Erik Svedahl, the Norwegian ambassador to Ukraine, on December 1. They discussed the use of Norwegian oil and gas industry technologies and providing Ukraine with funding to purchase natural gas this winter.

The Norwegian ambassador said he hoped for an increase in Norwegian aid to Ukraine, Naftogaz said. He also said future funding would be allocated to ensure Ukraine's energy security.

Reports have said Norway will provide Ukraine with 2 billion kroner or around $200 million to buy gas this winter. The financing will be disbursed through the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Naftogaz will be the formal recipient of the gas in Ukraine.

The Norwegian prime minister has said Norway would provide an aid package of 1 billion euros to Ukraine.