The talks ended in the signing of a tripartite agreement guaranteeing long-term cooperation in the gas sector, favourable to all sides.

The agreement was signed by: Alexander Medvedev, vice president of the Board of Directors of ОАО Gazprom and Director General of ООО  Gazprom Export; Michał Szubski, president of the Management Board of PGNiG SA; Radosław Dudziński, vice president of the Management Board of PGNiG SA; and members of the Management Board of EuRoPol Gaz SA representing Poland and Russia.

The document calls for an extension of the contract for the supply of gas from the Russian Federation to Poland until 2037 and, in compliance with the contract in force, as of 2010 envisages an increase in the volume of gas supplies to Poland according to Polish demand up to a maximum of 10.2 bln. cubic metres. The parties placed themselves under an obligation to introduce the appropriate amendments to the contract.

The concluded agreement extends the contract for the supply of gas along the Yamal pipeline through Polish territory to western European countries until 2045, under the terms currently in force.

The agreement also resolves problems with the supply of gas belonging to OAO Gazprom through Polish territory and with the business operations of EuRoPol Gaz SA. The parties reckon to have resolved differences regarding payment of the transit charge for the supply of gas through Poland in 2006-2009.

The agreement creates favourable conditions for essential amendments to the 1993 Intergovernmental Agreement which is being discussed by the governments of both countries.

"The agreement signed today confirms the credibility and constructive nature of the partnership between our companies. It opens up prospects for our closer cooperation", said Alexander Medvedev.

"Thanks to the agreement signed with the gas producer, and not with an intermediary, we finally have an opportunity to stabilize Poland's gas supply situation", said Michał Szubski. The agreement concluded between the companies brings to an end 10 years of mounting problems and presents a chance for good cooperation.

Joanna Zakrzewska