OPEC to Remain Economic Organisation

The Russian Government believes that OPEC should remain a purel y economic organisation, non-related to politics, if it wants to retain its influence, said Viktor Khristenko, Vice-Premier of the Russian Government.

The Iraq war is likely to carry risks for OPEC anyway. Besides the possible production of the Iraqi oil, risks will increase even more if OPEC tries to be a political player in the current situation, the Vice-Premier believes.

"If OPEC is engaged in political games, this will be the beginning of its end," Khristenko stated. He announced that OPEC must remain an economic organisation of oil-producing countries that regulate prices and minimise profits of exchange dealers.