VOG 2005 New Thread

Much is being made of the monopoly of Gazprom's pipeline,while they will drive a hard barguin,i wonder is it in their best interest to screw its customers,
afterall Russia requires Western money and technology. Any future potential player would take on board such conditions which did not make good business sense?
One major as already started to look elsewhere,in fact Columbia if my memory is correct stating such behavour and unfavourable taxes. So any new exploration would surely get an agreement with Gazprom on prices before committing themselves? aimho
I just like to wish everyone a Happy and Prosperous New Year.
dia