SOUTH STREAM PROGRESS

NGE. Russian authorities approved the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the Russian sector of the South Stream offshore pipeline.

"This is a significant milestone for the Project and a testament to our efforts," Oleg Aksyutin, CEO of South Stream Transport, said in a note released on Monday.

 According to Gazprom, experts undertook surveys of animal and plant life in the Black Sea and at the Anapa landfall. They expect the majority of the effects on the environment to be limited to the construction phase.

 This approval is nothing new, but it is relevant as it sends a clear message: Russia wants to proceed with the project. And the recent achievements make a convincing case for a strong united Russian industry that does not show any proof of hesitation.