Russian Business Leader Criticizes Iran Cartel Idea

Igor Yurgens (left, file photo) (ITAR-TASS) January 29, 2007 -- The vice president of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs today voiced doubts about a possible gas cartel led by Russia and Iran.

Igor Yurgens, speaking on Ekho Moskvy radio, warned that such a cartel could create political and economic difficulties due to Iran's controversial policies.


Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei on January 28 suggested Russia and Iran create the gas equivalent of OPEC, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.


(IRNA, ITAR-TASS, Interfax)

The Iranian Economy

The Iranian Economy

Buses being produced at a factory in Tehran (Fars)

IN NEED OF DIVERSIFICATION. Populist Iranian President Mahmud Ahmadinejad is having trouble fulfilling his promises to put the country's petrodollars on the plates of average citizens. Inflation and unemployment remain high and the economy is dominated by the energy sector.


RELATED ARTICLES

Foes Challenge President's Economic Rhetoric

Power Cuts In An Energy-Rich Land Spark Protests

Government Balks At Gasoline Rationing

Weak Economy Challenges Populist President


ARCHIVE

RFE/RL's coverage of Iran.



SUBSCRIBE

For weekly news and analysis on Iran by e-mail, subscribe to "RFE/RL Iran Report."