Gazprom and GDF Suez celebrate
35 years of gas supply to France

02/03/2010

Today in Paris in presence of Gazprom Management Committee Chairman Alexey Miller, the Chairman and CEO of GDF SUEZ Gérard Mestrallet and the Vice-Chairman and President of GDF SUEZ Jean-François Cirelli, Gazprom and GDF SUEZ celebrated the 35 anniversary of natural gas supplies from Russia to France.

«35 years ago the first contract to supply Russia's natural gas to the Gaz de France company was signed. Since then and continuing to this day, Russian-French cooperation in the energy sector has been based on a firm will of all parties to build strong, long term relationship and to develop a partnership based on respect for the balance of interests between suppliers and consumers. As a result, France has been among the five largest buyers of Russian gas for a number of years already and our interaction is not limited to gas supplies any more - it also includes areas such as energy saving, construction and operation of underground gas storage facilities, LNG sales, scientific and technical cooperation, advanced training of specialists. The bright projects in the field of culture and sports implemented by Gazprom and GDF SUEZ deserve special attention.

We are confident that the development of our partnership will not slow down – this has been evidenced with the signing of a Memorandum with regard to additional gas supplies to GDF SUEZ and the Nord Stream project. Participation of GDF SUEZ in the construction of this pipeline confirms its importance for ensuring a stable supply to Europe. Our vast experience in joint implementation of energy projects, as well as our creative approach to new challenges gives Gazprom and GDF SUEZ every right to call our collaboration the benchmark for energy partnerships», - said Alexey Miller.

“Thirty five years ago France signed the first natural gas supply contract with Russia. Strong ties emerged between our two countries from the unique and efficient collaboration between Gazprom and GDF SUEZ. Both our companies had a shared vision for the gas industry, a vision that allowed us to develop the necessary infrastructure to ensure Europe’s energy security of supply. Gazprom and GDF SUEZ reinforced their collaboration with the announcement of GDF SUEZ’ participation in the Nord Stream pipeline and negotiations for additional volumes of long-time natural gas supply. Jean-François Cirelli and myself believe in the strategic importance of partnerships that link both our companies. This trustful and fruitful relationship allows France and Europe to secure its energy future over the long term.

Beyond our industrial interests our Groups have always known how to develop common actions in the cultural domain, in arts as well as sports. GDF SUEZ is proud to be the partner of this Louvre exhibit “Holly Russia” inaugurated tonight”, - said Gerard Mestrallet.

GDF SUEZ