Russian media confirm reports of Lukoil's ambitious plans for Poland

The Russian media have confirmed reports that oil concern Lukoil is planning to expand its operations in Poland. Gazeta Wyborcza and Prawo i Gospodarka both cite a statement quoted in the Russian daily Kommiersant in which Lukoil president Nikolaj Walow says the company plans to open 200 gas stations in Poland by the end of 2003. Prawo i Gospodarka estimates such a network would cost Lukoil $400 million. The company is also reported to be considering the purchase of an additional 100 PKN Orlen owned stations and 320 belonging to Rafineria Gdanska (RG). During a recent visit to Poland, vice-president of Lukoil, Ralif Safin, said the company is seeking investment opportunities, in anticipation of a dramatic increase in regional fuel consumption. (Gazeta Wyborcza, p. 22; Prawo i Gospodarka, Feb. 2-3, p. 4) M.T.K.