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

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.