Russian oil company eyes partnership with PHL independent oil firms

Officials from the Philippine Embassy in Russia and one of Russia’s top oil and gas refining corporations, GAZPROM NEFT, discuss the possibility of partnering with Philippine independent oil players on a competitive basis which could help provide stabilize oil supply and possibly lower oil prices in the Philippines. From left: Manager for International Projects of GAZPROM NEFT Alexandra Kuznetsov, GAZPROM NEFT Projects Head Igor Valutskiy, Philippine Ambassador to Russia Carlos D. Sorreta, and Philippine Embassy Economic Section Head Vice-Consul Grace Perpetua. PHOTO FROM DFA

The Philippine Ambassador to Russia met with Russian oil and refining company executives  to discuss a possible partnership with independent oil firms in the country, according to a statement posted by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

Ambassador Carlos Sorreta and executives of Gazprom Neft also talked about bringing Russian fuel, oil, and lubricants to the country.

“We are always looking for opportunities to bring the price of energy down for Philippine consumers and partnering with Gazprom Neft may be such an opportunity, not only in lowering energy costs but also in establishing stable and secure supply sources,” Sorreta said during a meeting held at the Philippine Embassy in Moscow. 

He agreed to link Gazprom Neft with independent oil firms in the country, according to the statement.

The dialogue stemmed from the discussion of President Rodrigo Duterte with Russian government officials on energy cooperation during a recent visit to Moscow.

Sorreta added that he would get in touch with the respective Philippine government agencies concerned about the possible exchange of technology in the areas of refining and tapping depleted oil fields.

They also discussed how the products may be used in the construction industry, including road building. — Joahna Lei Casilao/BAP/KG, GMA News