Ukraine interested in gas supplies from Europe - Azarov

KYIV. Jan 28 (Interfax) - Ukraine would like to buy natural gas from Europe, as today it is much cheaper than Russian gas, Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov said.

According to a Monday posting on the government's website, during a meeting with a delegation from Germany's Ferrostaal GmbH, Azarov said that "Ukraine could receive gas from Europe under much better terms than from Russia, as European contracts contain no take-or-pay condition and don't envisage sanctions for buying less gas than foreseen by the contract."

Azarov also said Ukraine already has good experience in buying natural gas from the EU.

Azarov is personally overseeing the project for the modernization of Ukraine's gas transport system (GTS).

"We are grateful for your support of our position regarding the modernization of the gas transport system. It is especially important for us now in the situation when a one-sided gas agreement with Russia is in effect," Azarov said.

He also said that the modernization of the GTS, which Ukraine is carrying out together with Deutsche Bank and Ferrostaal, is a promising project, and the country's government will do its utmost to support the project.

"The modernization of our gas transport system is extremely important. In this context, the implementation of a pilot project to upgrade the Bar compressor station on the Soyuz trunk gas pipeline and Deutsche Bank's participation in the project are important," Azarov said.

Uk eb

(Our editorial staff can be reached at eng.editors@interfax.ru)