Russia's energy complex may be a basic element of global stability

Russia's energy complex may become a basic element of the global security, especially "against the background of increasing challenges in the world energy complex," Vladimir Lukin, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma, said at the opening ceremony of the All-Russian Oil and Gas Week.

According to his words, oil production in Russia is not only the basis of the national economy and exports, of which 57 percent are fuel and energy products. Lukin believes that playing a major role in the world fuel and energy production, Russia is able to significantly influence the international politics. In his words, "an oil and gas factor is an instrument to influence the world politics which will make up for Russia's lagging behind in other areas." The Vice-Speaker pointed to the importance of the oil and gas factor in the integration processes of the CIS countries, in the rapprochement of Russia with Europe and the USA and in the enhancement of the relations with China.

The All-Russia Oil and Gas Week is supported by the Russian State Duma, the Economic Ministries and the Russian Trade Chamber. The representatives of the major national oil and gas companies from Great Britain, France, Germany and other countries are taking part in the Week.

As part of the Week, "the Oil and Gas Complex. Technologies. Equipment. Services" and "Road Services-2002" exhibitions will be held. Over 400 companies among which are British Petroleum, Gazprom, Yukos, Transneft, Stroitransgas, Rosavtodor, Itera, confirmed their participation in the Week.