Russia, Qatar eye OPEC-style natural gas cartel

DOHA, Qatar – Leaders of natural gas-rich Russia and Qatar said Monday they would explore the creation of a natural gas cartel to represent the interests of producer countries to influence the global market.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Qatari Emir Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani told reporters here that they wanted more cooperation among competing gas producers in their dealings with natural gas-consuming countries.


“We do not reject the idea of creating a gas cartel,” Putin said. “But this initiative requires more study.”

European Union leaders have said they would stand against any effort by Russia to create such a cartel, fearing gas prices