Russia’s Gazprom proposes gas deal with Iran

MOSCOW – Russian energy minister says Gazprom, Russia’s state gas monopoly, has put forward proposals for the development of oil fields in Iran.

Alexander Novak spoke at bilateral trade discussions in Tehran on Monday. He underscored Moscow’s desire to strengthen trade relations with Iran and said the countries were considering opening a free-trade zone, according to reports from Russia’s Tass news agency.

Sanctions against Iran were lifted in January and Western and Russian gas and oil companies have been keen to close deals with Iran and gain access to the country’s natural resources.

It’s unclear if Iran will accept the conditions set out by Gazprom.

During the same Monday discussions, Iran’s communications minister, Mahmoud Vaezi, said Iran wishes to review the conditions of energy contracts made with Russia before sanctions were lifted.