Presidents of Russia and the USA agree to "maximally step up" cooperation in energy sphere

The presidents of Russia and the USA have agreed to "maximally step up" cooperation in the energy sphere and enhance deliveries of Russian-made energy resources to the US market, told journalists Russia's Economic Development and Trade Minister German Gref after a round of Russia-US talks in the presence of both countries' teams.

According to Gref, US President George W.Bush has confirmed that the USA is indeed interested in this kind of cooperation. However, "real progress" will be achieved only when the USA recognizes Russia as a country with market economy, said the minister.

As of today, Russia accounts for only 0.2 per cent of energy deliveries to the US market, while Saudi Arabia and Venezuela account for 20 and 14 per cent, respectively. Pointing out that Russia occupies a position between these two countries where production of energy resources is concerned, Gref said the Russian side has indeed a good chance of enhancing its deliveries.