The newly-elected government of Greece does not plan to sell its 65% share in the state gas company DEPA, Panayotis Lafazanis, Greek Energy Minister, said on Friday.
“We are not going to privatize gas distribution company DEPA or sell it to somebody, irrespective of who is the interested side,” Reuters quoted Minister assaying.
Minister has also mentioned the deal to sell the DESFA, operator of the gas distribution network, to SOCAR concluded in 2013. He said the government will act only after the decision of the European Commission. “We will wait for the decision of the European Commission and determine our future steps,” said Minister.
Minister is also aimed against one of the biggest investment projects in the country – gold mine operated by the Canadian Eldorado Gold. “We are strongly opposed to this project and we will consider our future actions.” Reuters quoted Minister as saying. Minister refused to say if the government will insist on termination of the project.
Minister’s comments intensify the investors’ fears that the government supports the policy, which has caused reduction of investments into the country and which has affected the financial markets, reported Reuters.