Nuclear Plant doesn’t influence gas prices

In 2010 gas prices will increase from $154 to $180 per 1000 cubic meters in accordance with a preliminary agreement. Today ArmRosgazprom’s general manager and chairman Karen Karapetyan told journalists that Gazprom and ArmRosgazprom are still negotiating.

“We are still in talks and it depends on market, its oil and gas prices, the changes may happen; however out strategy is to stick with $180 which is really an optimal price in the region,” he said adding that it’s time to shape a new approach in Armenia: “We, the Armenians, always expect a special relation, it’s quite boring and horizonless. One should adopt and speak in economic categories.”

ArmRosgazprom provided special offers for Armenia over past 12 years, said Karen Karapetyan. “The republic had to prepare that it should sooner or later move to a market relations. It’s impossible to sell anything cheaper than everywhere. We must prepare our economy.”

He also mentioned issued statements on provided by Russia gas allowances ($180 instead of $200) in exchange for right to build a new nuclear plant in Armenia, calling these statements “not serious”.

“Nuclear Plant has no link to gas prices,” he assured.