Iran, Armenia finalize gas accord

IranMania News
April 3 2004

Iran, Armenia finalize gas accord

TEHRAN, April 2 (IRIB) – Negotiations with Iran regarding the
construction of a gas pipeline to Armenia reached the final stage,
Armenian Energy Minister Armen Movsesyan said.

The sides have already reached accords on the main technical
parameters of the pipeline. Iranian oil minister is expected to
arrive in Yerevan in early April to sign an agreement on building of
a gas pipeline, Movsesyan said.

According to the minister, the construction, due to begin later this
year, will last 20 months and to be completed in 2006. Either country
will be fully responsible for laying its stretch of the pipeline.
According to preliminary estimates, the Armenian section will cost
dlrs 100 million to lay, and the Iranian stretch, slightly more.

According to the draft agreement, Iran will deliver gas to Armeniain
amounts sufficient only for the country’s domestic consumption,
Movsesyan said. The question of extending the pipeline farther to
carry Iranian gas to Europe was not considered, contrary to
allegations by some mass media.

The gas pipeline from Iran will ensure continuous gas supply to
Armenia and enhance its energy security.