Russia is ready to offer Japanese companies control over oil and gas projects – Ekho Moskvy radio station

This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister Arkady Dvorkovich, communicating with the Japanese press.

The proposal concerns of Japanese investors, who have strategic development plans. They are ready to invite Russia to participate in the major oil and gas projects. And even offer controlling stakes, said Arkady Dvorkovich Nikkei newspaper. He explained: Moscow wants to see progress in economic cooperation with Tokyo. Vice-Premier added that Moscow continues to develop the dialogue even though the sanctions entered Japan, along with the Western countries after the annexation of the Crimea and the situation in the south-east of Ukraine. Japanese experts may even be invited to participate in the development of the Kuril Islands, which both said Dvorkovich is preparing the establishment of a new type of economic zone. At the same time Deputy Prime Minister confirmed: Islands, which are claimed by Japan, Russia. Moscow for a long time did not allow foreign participation in oil and gas projects, including their strategic importance. But after the sanctions, the Russian government was open to attract Chinese investors, and now turned and Japan, the newspaper notes. And do not rule out that Russia may go to such a step in order to protect from excessive economic dependence on China.

The Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in April can fly to Tokyo and to discuss topical political and economic issues with the Japanese counterpart.