Press Release 11 November 2007

In a message to the Congress Putin calls
for dialogue and transparency

In a greeting that was read at the opening ceremony of the 20th World Energy Congress, Russian Federation President Vladimir Putin called for "open dialogue" between countries and companies to ensure the world's energy market remains transparent.

 In a note that was read at the beginning of the ceremony, Putin said: "Your Forum always welcomes leading experts, representatives of business circles, public authorities from many countries. Questions to discuss here can be considered as the matters of common anxiety. It is not an overstatement to say that today there are matters of all world energy community.

 "Since the role of energy becomes more important from day to day in the world trade and international relations, only successive and open dialogue may create more transparent energy market and establish trade rules based on the principles of justice and mutual respect."

 "Taking the above principles into consideration, Russia is submitting these matters for discussion at the most important discussion forums and events."

"It is my belief that a wide and substantial discussion between representatives of the professional community will be a positive experience exchange. As for the recommendations and suggestions worked out at the Forum, they will be helpful to developing 'true partners' relations in the sphere of energy for the sake of our countries and people".

WEC Media contact:
Mathias Hocke: hocke@worldenergy.org
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7734 5996
Stephan Albrechtskirchinger: albrechtskirchinger@worldenergy.org
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7734 5996