PGNiG and Norwegian Statoil near conclusion of deal for gas thru Denmark

Chances are good that before the end of 2000, Polish Gas and Oil Exploration (PGNiG) and Norway-based oil company Statoil will sign a preliminary agreement concerning the supply of 5 billion cubic meters of gas from Norway to Poland. The document will include the description of the gas pipeline route, together with the price for the supply. The official agreement is scheduled to be signed at the beginning of 2001. According to unofficial information, the negotiations between the two sides have almost concluded. The Norwegian side is considering three alternative routes. A route version running underwater through the Danish straits is most likely to be chosen. (Rzeczpospolita, p. A1)