Gazprom Ups Belarus Stake

摘要

Gazprom is set to increase its stake in Belarusian state gas pipeline operator Beltransgas to 37.5% next week as part of a deal to gradually boost its holding in the firm. The Russian company is set to hike its stake in Beltransgas to 50% by 2010, paying a total of $2.5 billion in four equal installments that correspond to 12.5% stakes under a deal with Belarus' State Property Committee signed in May 2007, increasing its hold over strategic oil and gas export routes. Under the deal, Gazprom will obtain management rights as soon as it acquires the full stake (NC May3'07,p10).