At a meeting on economic issues, the President of Russia noted that the Ukrainian budget has received significant funds from privatization and credits from Western financial institutions linked to energy projects. These funds are sufficient to purchase the desired volume of Russian gas at market price.
The President also recalled the fact that negotiations with Ukraine to liberalise prices for Russian gas supplies and transport tariffs on gas that passes through Ukrainian territory began in March 2005. Ukrainian partners largely initiated these negotiations and supported them in the most vigorous way.
However, the President emphasized that it is necessary to find an acceptable decision for both our partners and Russia's economy. Negotiations on energy deliveries should not impact on the countries' relations.