Gas talks: EU proposes scheme for transit agreement between Ukraine and Russia

"I have the impression that we are moving in a positive direction. European partners have proposed schemes under which two contracts could be signed: an interconnector agreement and a transportation agreement. We fully support our partners, taking into account Ukraine's clear stance on ensuring security of supplies in region, ensuring stable supplies to European markets, as well as stable volumes required for the operation of gas transmission system," Energy and Environmental Protection Minister of Ukraine Oleksiy Orzhel said during a press conference on Monday, an Ukrinform correspondent reported.

According to the minister, the Ukrainian side fully supports the position of the European partners and continues to bring the Ukrainian legislation in line with the European one and to create an independent GTS operator.

"It [the independent operator] will sign these agreements. We will really work within the European legislative field," Orzhel said.

The Russian side, in turn, raised the issues of arbitrations’ jurisdiction and volumes of gas supplies, the Ukrainian minister informed.

"This is an element of package position. At the same time, I want to confirm that the issue of the transit agreement is not directly linked with other package agreements. If we are to talk about other package agreements, they should be based on bilateral interests," Orzhel added.

The trilateral consultations between the European Commission, Ukraine and Russia regarding the transit of Russian gas to the European market through the territory of Ukraine took place in Brussels on Monday, October 28.

The Energy and Environmental Protection Minister of Ukraine announced that the next round of transit talks was scheduled for November.

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