The second largest natural gas company in Russia, Novatek, confirmed its interest in participating in the second round of licensing of the Cyprus EEZ.

According to Bloomberg, Novatek representative confirmed that his company is examining the possibility of participating in the licensing procedure.

Novatek CEO, billionaire Leonid Mikhelson traveled to Cyprus to have talks with President Christofias, the Minister of Interior, Neoclis Silikiotis and other business organizations.

Mr. Mikhelson was accompanied by Gazprombank Chairman, Andrei Akimov.

The production and sale of Novatek gas is currently restricted in Russia only, since exports are made by state company Gazprom. Gazprom is the world’s largest natural gas producer.

Last year, Novatek terminated the agreement with El-Arish of Egypt, since no commercially exploitable deposits were found.

In his statements to StockWatch yesterday, CCCI Chairman, Fedias Pilides said that the Russian company might be interested in investing in the gas de-liquefaction plant as well.

The first stage of the second round of licensing expires on May 11.