“Belneftekhim” denies reports about halted oil deliveries from Russia

“Oil from Russia is delivered, enterprises work in a customary mode,” stated spokesperson of the concern Maryna Kastyuchenka.

In an interview to BelaPAN “Belneftekhim” refuted reports of a number of mass media that Russian oil deliveries to Belarusian oil refineries had been halted. Earlier Reuters agency with a reference to Russian oil traders reported that since 2010 Russia stopped oil deliveries to Belarusian oil refineries. These reports haven’t been confirmed officially. In the end of 2009 Russian officials promised that they won’t turn off the pipeline.

Meanwhile Navapolatsk Naftan enterprise and Mozyr oil refinery refuse to comment the situation with oil deliveries from Russia.

As reported earlier, Belarus and Russia failed to sign an agreement on conditions of oil deliveries as planned, on December 30-31. Russia announced a decision to deliver oil to Belarus since January 1, 2020 including 100% of export dues to the price. In 2009 a special due of 35.6% of standard export due was included to the price.

In response Belarusian government stated that Russia exerts unprecedented pressure in the talks on oil deliveries. The two sides however confirmed they are ready to continue talks.

On January 2 talks on oil deliveries continued. It was confirmed by Russian Energy minister aide Irina Esipova. “Transporting is done in full measure, the process of negotiations is continued at the moment,” she said to journalists refusing to reveal details.

On the same day Vice President of Transneft company Mikhail Barkov stated that Russia would cut down volumes of oil transit via Belarus under no circumstances. As for oil deliveries to the Belarusian side, everything depends on the position of Minsk in this situation, he added.