Alexey Gromov, Principal Director on Energy Studies of the Institute for Energy and Finance, commented to the Internet portal "Economics Segodnya" on the reshuffle in the Board of Directors of Rosneft.
The attraction of an Austrian representative to the Rosneft Board of Directors is unlikely to be associated with a change in the company's economic course, but indicates an increase in its authority, Alexei Gromov, Energy Director of the Institute for Energy and Finance, said.
“Austria is undoubtedly an important economic partner for Russia. However, in terms of energy, it is a partner primarily in the gas sector, since Austria is an important transit point for Russian gas on its way to other EU countries.
On the other hand, today, against the background of tense relations with the EU countries, it is Austria that is one of the few states that support partnership with Russia in almost all areas. For example, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz plans to speak via video link at the SPIEF in St. Petersburg, which is also an important sign of affection,” Alexey Gromov explains.
“The attraction of a representative of Austria to the Board of Directors of Rosneft is a sign that the company supports those representatives of Europe who seek partnership with Russia,” Alexey Gromov is convinced. "This step is more designed to strengthen the position in the international political arena and is unlikely to be associated with a change in the company's economic course, but rather with an increase in its authority."
Systematic development is typical for Rosneft. However, the pace of implementation of the strategic goals of the corporation is influenced to a certain extent by the sanctions pressure from the West, as well as with respect to its leadership.
Of course, Rosneft is taking certain steps to reduce the degree of existing pressure, including certain personnel changes in the Board of Directors, the expert concluded.
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