The Ukrainian Energy Forum began in Kyiv on Tuesday, October 7, at the Premier Palace Hotel and will run through Thursday, October 9, 2008. The Ukrainian energy sector has consistently attracted significant international and local media attention over the last few years. More often than not, the attention paid to geo-political issues and the security of gas supplies overshadowed the commercial opportunities that exist in the sector. Most of the critical energy issues faced by Ukraine are being addressed during the Forum which is one of a series of Adam Smith Conferences’ on key Ukraine economic and business issues.
 
40-strong speaker faculty featured key Ukrainian officials from the Ministry of Fuel & Energy, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Verkhovna Rada, State Property Fund and the National Electricity Regulatory Commission, leading Ukrainian energy companies, international strategic investors, respected financiers, commentators and advisers, including the Head of Vasil Kisil & Partners Energy and Natural Resources Practice Oleg Alyoshin.

During his presentation, Mr. Alyoshin gave an overview of the legal environment for exploration and production opportunities for foreign investors in Ukraine and concentrated on the opportunities to mitigate political risks under Ukrainian and public international law in view of the existing political environment.

In conclusion, Mr. Alyoshin expressed his optimism regarding the future of Oil & Gas sector in Ukraine and stated that “The coming years will be very interesting times in Ukraine for foreign oil and gas investors. It is to be hoped that Ukraine will honor existing subsoil contracts and provide a stable regulatory framework that will give confidence to foreign companies to invest in Ukraine.”

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Vasil Kisil & Partners is one of the leading and long-established law firms in Ukraine that has impeccable reputation, unique expertise and is providing top quality services to its clients. Founded in 1992, the firm has assembled a talented team of 65 experienced and skilled lawyers dedicated to the highest level of service adhering to internationally accepted professional and ethical standards. Vasil Kisil & Partners provides legal support to both Ukrainian companies operating abroad as well as foreign and international corporations doing business in Ukraine.

For additional information, please, contact Tatyana Sabitova, PR & Communications Executive at:
Tel.: +38 044 581-7777
Fax: +38 044 581-7770
sabitova@vkp.kiev.ua
www.kisilandpartners.com