November 13, 2006

Poland wants Russia to lift meat ban before discussing energy deals

The EU's proposals Monday (Nov 13) to build closer ties with Russia could face opposition from Poland, according to international press reports.

Poland is demanding Russia to put an end to its year-long ban on Polish meat and wants Russia to commit to an international energy trade pact, The Associated Press reported.

The EU is preparing a wide-ranging economic cooperation deal with Russia and hope a Nov 24 summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin would lead to the opening of negotiations.

Poland, however wants a commitment from Russia to supply gas and oil under fairer trade rules and grant transit rights to energy supplies from other countries passing through Russia.

Although Russia claims that Polish meats were banned due to their substandard quality, Poland said Russia imposed the ban due to Poland's support for democratic change in Ukraine.

Facing an ever-increasing demand for energy, the EU is hoping to persuade Russia to allow foreign companies to invest in Russia's energy sector and provide legal guarantees.

Russia provides one-third of EU energy imparts and almost half of its gas imports.

However, without financial support and technology from the west, it would be unable to make full use of its resources.