Turkey does not anticipate problems in Russian gas supplies

TOKYO, April 10 (Itar-Tass) - Ankara does not anticipate problems in its energy relations with Russia in connection with the Ukraine crisis, Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said in an interview published in the Japanese business newspaper Nikkei on Thursday. Turkey relies on Russia for its gas imports. No gas shortage crisis is anticipated, he said in reply to a question about stability of Russian gas supplies through Ukraine, noting "Turkey's energy agreements with Russia are clear." The foreign minister reiterated Ankara did not agree with the joining of Crimea to Russia. "We do not recognize it," he said, emphasizing the territorial integrity of Ukraine. At the same time, he noted NATO would not interfere in the country's affairs. Ukraine is not part of NATO, he reminded. The minister also condemned the declaration of republics in some eastern Ukrainian regions. It was not constructive, he said, warning that such events might spread to neighbouring countries. "We do not want (the Ukraine crisis) to have such a domino effect," he said. Learn more on itar-tass.com