Russia Rejects Credit to Lukashenka :: Charter'97 :: News

Russian government rejected credit to Belarus for the sum of GDP in 2006. Belarus wanted the money to compensate its losses caused by an increase in Russian gas prices in 2005. It was said on Tuesday to Interfax by first vice-prime minister of the government, Uladzimir Syamashka (Semashnko). “We have received an official refusal of Russian government. We need investment recourses, but we would endure,” Syamashka said, underlining that Belarus is able to pay for gas.

Vice prime-minister also confirmed that the questions of granting a credit in this year are decided. “Only technical details are to be settled, and it’s a matter of several days,” Vice prime-minister said.

However, it should be noted that $146 million allocated for this year, have not been included to the budget of Russia still.

This year Gazprom agreed to supply 20.5 billion cubic metres of gas at a price of $46.68 for 1,000 cubic metres. Syamashka said that delivery of 21.0-21.5 million cubic metres of gas is planned for the year 2006, however the final agreement have not been reached yet. He denied a rumour about Gazprom’s intention to raise the gas price in 2006 again, referring to the May agreement of the presidents of the two countries.

“Presidents have reached an agreement, and the price for gas is to stay at the same level,” he said.