Russia's Energy Ministry does not anticipate facing any New Year's surprises or unexpected turns in relations with Ukraine and Belarus in matters involving gas, Energy Minister Sergei Shmatko told the press on Wednesday.
"We are not expecting any kind of surprise or anything unexpected in relations with Belarus and Ukraine," Shmatko said. Russia has taken every step needed to "rule out any kind of misunderstanding" with these two neighbors, he said.
A long-term contract for the supply and transit of gas that does not require constant extensions, as was the case previously, has been signed with Ukraine.
The preparation process for the creation of a common economic space is underway with Belarus. This common economic space "is extremely advantageous for Belarus, as it ensures delivery of duty-free oil, the creation of a common energy market, and so on," Shmatko said.
