Baltic States – CIS, Energy, Gas, Latvia, Legislation

During the meeting, the economy minister informed the two officials about Latvia's work in implementing the European Union's requirements to ensure the liberalization of the gas market, as well as the country's plans on alternative gas suppliers. Pavluts emphasized that Latvia is interested in dealing with this matter in a constructive and transparent way, and involving all sides to be part of a dialogue, which would ensure the interests of Latvian consumers.

''The liberalization of Latvia's gas market will take place, and even though this matter has not been discussed recently, we have begun preparatory work to implement this. All of the involved sides know that this will happen and are informed. Latvia's energy strategy foresees a 50 percent reduction on the dependence of one gas supplier by 2030, and Latvia is committed to achieve this goal in a pragmatic way. When dealing with these matters, it cannot be forgotten that we are doing this in the interests of our country's residents,'' Pavluts pointed out.

The Russian side expressed support to Latvia's approach to solve matters through dialogue during the gas market liberalization process. Novak and Medvedev admitted that the gas market liberalization will be implemented in Latvia, but said that they wish to discuss the liberalization model the Latvian government plans to pass next year.

As reported, Pavluts is in Moscow at the moment to attend the Seventh International Energy Week Forum.