Russia may give further discount in gas prices for Turkey, says Russian minister

MOSCOW

Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak delivers a speech during a meeting with members of his ministry in Moscow. REUTERS Photo

Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak has said the discount for Russian gas for Turkey may increase more than 6 percent in the future, depending on market prices and the realization of joint gas projects, RIA Novosti has reported.

Novak noted that Turkey had been asking for a discount of 15 percent for gas.

Russia and Turkey reached an agreement on construction of a gas pipeline under the Black Sea during President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Ankara on Dec. 1.

The 6 percent gas price discount granted by Russia to Turkey is not final, Turkish Energy Minister Taner Yıldız said after its announcement, adding that price negotiations are continuing after Ankara submitted a counter bid seeking a deeper cut.

“We find the Russia’s move positive, but our counter proposal is still being negotiated. We are asking for more of a gas discount from Russia,” Yıldız said at a news conference on Dec. 2.