Minister of National Infrastructures Uzi Landau told “IDF Radio" (Galei Zahal) today that Israel will speed up construction of the gas pipeline from the offshore Tamar field. "We're organizing the matter, and quickly. The Tamar field gas pipeline will be connected during 2013. We're also preparing a back-up for this pipeline, in other words, the ability to use coal, diesel, and heavy industrial oil. We're also working on building a dual-fuel plant, which can operate on natural gas and coal, and are acting to receive gas via a floating terminal."
Commenting on the latest attack on the gas pipeline in Egypt, which was closed as a result, Landau said, "Our system is ready to handle events of this kind and provide a response. Let's wait and see how things will develop. Both we and they have a paramount importance in preserving the peace treaty and economic agreements."
"Galei Zahal": How worried are you about the growing reports of hostile incidents against Israel in Egypt?
Landau: "We have to be very cautious here. There's no need to be surprised. [Late Egyptian President Anwar] Sadat once said that Egypt was the only Arab country, and all the others were tribes with flags."
Is it true that the Egyptians are selling us gas for less than the market price?
"Not at all. The price has been updated several times."
What is the period of the contract?
"This is a multiyear agreement, I think for about 20 years, with review points along the way. The rules of the game aren’t changed while playing."
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on April 27, 2011
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