You're reading: Kobolev says Naftogaz deems trilateral format best for Gazprom talks

Naftogaz Ukrainy still believes a trilateral format with the involvement of the European Commission is the best option for talks with Russia's Gazprom, Naftogaz CEO Andriy Kobolev has told journalists in Kyiv.

“We are ready for a bilateral meeting but a trilateral format is most comfortable for us. This will allow us to avoid speculation and stories that Naftogaz has some separate policy,” he said.

According to the Naftogaz head, the success of the previous negotiations was provided by the factor of their transparency, rather than backroom arrangements.

Kobolev said that no progress has been made to arrange the tripartite meeting.

“We have more negative information on the part of Gazprom. We see that they have not yet agreed to extend the winter package, which is somewhat frustrating for us,” the official said.