The discussion focused on topical issues related to raw materials exports and the social and economic situation in the country.
Mr Khristenko said that it had been decided that in 2000, oil companies would have access to the pipeline only if they were not in arrears to the federal budget.
The first deputy prime minister also spoke about the government’s measures to fulfil the goal Mr Putin set last December to pay overdue wages by April 15, 2000. The government will spend additionally 4 to 4.5 billion roubles for that purpose. It will hold a telephone conference on the matter on January 25.