Zarubezhneft might become the operator of Khariaga PSA

​Zarubezhneft might become the operator of the Khariaga PSA, a source close to the project’s management said.

Total is not going to quit the project. The issue of Zarubezhneft’s being the operator of the project is being discussed, he said.

They added that the project will be realized on the PSA conditions.

Zarubezhneft and Total are negotiating on the possible purchase of 40% Total in the Khariaga PSA. Zarubezhneft made an offer, Total doesn’t mind, the Ministry of Energy supports the potential deal.

Zarubezhneft and the Ministry of Energy think that all the disputes with the project should be settled before the deal is signed. It is about the claim of a contractor for the construction of an APG utilization unit “Globalstroiengineering” against the operator of the project – affiliate of Total “Total razvedka i dobycha Russia” for 13 bln roubles for the non-paid works. It is not clear if Zarubezhneft will be able to attract investment for the deal.