One of the priority tasks of Inter RAO UES is to become established on the markets of Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, Mr Sechin said.

"Inter RAO can become an effective instrument of cooperation with foreign companies," he said, adding that the company would also highlight traditional markets in the CIS.

To date, Inter RAO divisions work in over 15 countries and their outlook is good, the Deputy Prime Minister said.

Inter RAO General Director Yevgeni Dod said the company planned to become established on the markets of Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua in Latin America, adding that the most promising countries in Southeast Asia were Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and possibly Thailand.

Mr Sechin also touched on the state policy regarding energy companies amid the tight financial situation on the global markets. He said, in part, that the state would provide reasonable support to the Russian energy companies, but would demand that they report in detail on the implementation of their commitments under investment programmes.

He said that the energy efficiency of the country must be ensured under any circumstances.