Russian government forecasts gas prices will boost by 50% by 2006

Gas prices on the Russian interior market are supposed to boost by 2006 from the current 23 to 35-39 dollars for a thousand cubic metres, Vice Premier Viktor Khristenko stated at a press conference following the discussion of the country's energy strategy for the period till 2020 at a governmental meeting.

By 2010 interior gas prices will approximately rise to 46-49 dollars for a thousand cubic metres, the Vice Premier stated.

Moreover, since 2006 the state's influence on gas pricing is expected to be restricted to its transportation, which will "open new opportunities" for controlling prices for gas extraction, Mr. Khristenko pointed out.