Putin and Nikolic discuss South Stream and other topics

BELGRADE - Serbian President Tomislav Nikolic and Russian President Vladimir Putin have discussed in detail the situation with the South Stream gas pipeline project and the project for a pipeline through Turkey.

The phone conversation between the two officials was at Putin's initiative, lasted for over 40 minutes and had a very cordial and friendly atmosphere, with Nikolic explaining how a cancellation of the South Stream project would afftect Serbia's energy stability and adding that he hoped the decision was not yet final, the Serbian president's press service has stated.

The consequences of such a decision would be extensive and have a negative effect on Serbia's entire economy," Nikolic underscored.

He informed Putin about the quantities of gas Serbia needs and suggested that a tolling system might be a good idea.

Serbia is dedicated to maintaining friendly relations with Russia, Nikolic stated, stressing that friends do not punish each other, especially in times of crisis, the statement says.

The two presidents discussed other topics as well, including the Petrohemija project, and Nikolic requested gas for the Serbian chemical industry at cheaper prices.

Serbia values highly the support related to the creation of the Russian Investment Fund, whose resources would be meant for the agricultural and pharmaceutical industries focused on the Russian market, Nikolic pointed out.

Putin said he was pleased that trade with Serbia had increased significantly, adding that he was willing to accept any suggestion from Nikolic when it came to extending the list of products Serbia exported to Russia free of customs.

As for the automotive industry, a general agreement exists and the...