Mr Putin and Mr Miller discussed prospects for the development of the gas industry, including the construction of the North European gas pipeline, which would help in entering new markets, including North America, Mr Miller stressed. He said German, French and other foreign investors have already shown interest in the project.
Answering the President’s question about cooperation with Central Asian countries, Mr Miller said the company would take part in the production of gas in the region on the conditions of product sharing. The relevant agreements were reached with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. Also, the head of Gazprom told the President about plans for modernising the gas transportation systems in Central Asia. The volume of Gazprom’s direct investment there, considering relevant construction in Russia, would amount to $2 billion.
Mr Putin also asked about the cooperation between Gazprom and RAO UES of Russia. Mr Miller said the companies launched a constructive dialogue and settled arising problems in a routine manner.