Moscow values energy cooperation with Norway

Moscow values the energy dialogue between Russia and Norway, the two leading European oil and gas producers and exporters, including the discussions on price policy, spokesman for the Russian Foreign Ministry Alexander Yakovenko told RIA Novosti in view of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Oslo scheduled for November 12th.

According to the official, Russia's cooperation with Norway in the economic sphere has been more energetic over the past few years. Trade volumes, which exceeded 1 billion USD in 2001, and Norway's investment in the Russian economy, already estimated at 900 million USD, are on the increase.

Among cooperation priorities are oil and gas exploration, modernization of Russian shipbuilding facilities, fish-processing industry and docks, telecommunications and pharmaceuticals.

The Russian diplomat also welcomed the cooperation with Norway on the joint handling of the Barents Sea's fish resources.