Russian oil production up 2.4 percent in 2005

Russia pumped 470 million tons of oil in 2005, up 2.4 percent year-on-year and hitting its highest level in five years, the Industry and Energy Ministry said on Tuesday.

Crude oil exports declined one percent to 251 million tons last year, but these are in line for a boost with the construction of the East Siberia-Pacific oil pipeline.