24 September 2009
Iran invites Belarus to partake in gas extraction projects
MINSK, 24 September (BelTA) – Iran invites Belarusian companies to take part in projects to extract gas in Iran, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Iran to Belarus Seyyed Abdollah Hosseini told reporters before the opening of the Day of Iranian Economy in Belarus. “Iran invites Belarusian companies to take part in tenders in oil processing and gas industries,” the head of the Iranian diplomatic mission said. According to him, there are no restrictions for Belarus’ participation in gas projects; Belarusian companies will receive particular assistance. Iran is keen on expanding oil cooperation with Belarus. At present, Belarus is taking part in the pilot production of oil at the Jofeir deposit in Iran; the commercial production of oil will start in a few months already. The output of the explored strata is estimated at 50,000 barrels daily. The further oil supplies will be additionally discussed with the Iranian company. The Ambassador said that in this project the bulk of investment is provided by the Iranian side, while Belarus is responsible for maintenance support. The diplomat underlined that the two countries set a goal to reach $1 billion in the bilateral trade. In the near future this figure will be $500 million. At present the Iranian investments in Belarus are estimated at about $2 billion.БЕЛТА