You're reading: Tigipko: we could be deprived of gas transportation system for debts if we not privatize it

Russia intends to set profitable conditions at the intergovernmental level in the contract between Gazprom and Naftogaz Ukrainy, which will enable Russia to push its claim the Ukrainian gas transportation system, presidential candidate Sergiy Tigipko has said.

Tigipko was commenting on reports in the mass media about a draft new gas agreement between Ukraine and Russia, the press service of the politician reported on Nov. 13.

This document guarantees immunity for Russian property on the territory of Ukraine, including facilities of the gas transportation system. This draft agreement, which would last until 2031, foresees Ukraine voluntarily giving up immunity in relation to its own property. International gas agreements are void after this document comes into force.

"In fact, this project admits the possible transfer of the Ukrainian gas transportation system to Russia, as the status of international agreements are higher national legislation. Large penalties for shortfalls of gas [consumption] could be a forcible reason for Gazprom to claim Ukrainian pipelines. I will support the transparent privatization of the gas transportation system and the management of the pipeline jointly by Russia and Europe, but I will not support the seizure of the pipeline," the politician said.