ISTANBUL - Energy and Natural Resources Minister Hilmi Guler stated on Monday that they would hold a new meeting with Russian natural gas firm Gazprom's officials in the following week.
Guler, who returned from Italy, told a press conference that the meeting held in Rome with participation of energy and environment ministers of European Union (EU) member and candidate countries was very fruitful.
Especially energy and environmental and air pollution were debated in the meeting, Guler stated.
Guler said that he held separate meetings with energy ministers of Bulgaria, Greece and Italy.
Replying to a question, Guler noted that he debated disagreement which occurred between Turkey and Gazprom firm with Russian officials.
Guler said, ''we had different contacts regarding Gazprom. Ministers of other countries asked questions about this issue. They are interested in this issue. We will again meet with officials of the company next week. We favor a compromise. We believe that we can solve it through dialogue.''
''We are in the process of arbitration. But, we hope that we can solve this problem between two neighbor countries without any need for arbitration. We are reciprocally taking significant steps. My impression of the meetings in Rome is positive,'' Guler added.
(BRC-AÖ) 21.07.2003