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EU energy ministers discuss the security of gas supply
The EU energy ministers will meet at an extraordinary Council meeting in Brussels on 2 May 2022. France has invited the Member States to discuss the impacts of Russia’s attack on the EU’s energy sector and to establish a situational picture among energy ministers concerning the recent developments in the security of gas supply. Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä will represent Finland.
The discussion will focus on Russia’s requirement that gas is to paid in roubles. Russia discontinued gas deliveries to Poland and Bulgaria on 27 April 2022, because the companies in these countries refused to pay for the gas in roubles.
Finland considers it important that the existing agreements for the purchase of gas concluded by the companies, which also define the currency, are complied with in all respects. Non-compliance with the agreement constitutes a breach of contract. To Finland, it is also important that the EU Member States work together in this issue.
The discussions will focus on the legislative proposal concerning the security of gas supply, joint procurement and the refilling of gas storages. Finland supports the efforts to procure gas jointly and wants to find a gas storage solution, which functions well and is suitable for all. Finland welcomes the voluntary nature of the measures for the Member States. Member States should be able to determine their share on the basis of their own needs.
As a rule, the Government welcomes the Commission’s proposal for a regulation on gas storage. Finland also has a strategic interest in filling the gas reserves in the EU area next winter.
Inquiries:
Riku Huttunen, Director General, Minister of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 50 431 6518
Maria Kekki, Ministerial Adviser, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 50 453 5223
Nina Alatalo, Adviser to the Minister of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 50 431 8015 (EU and international affairs)
Ville Niemi, Senior Specialist, Permanent Representation of Finland to the EU, Brussels, tel. +32 479 470 175