Croatia PM: INA-MOL dispute could become “arena”
Croatian Prime Minister Zoran Milanović warned in a television interview this week that differences between his country and Hungarian interests over Croatia-based oil-and-gas company INA threaten to become an “arena.”
“This is a war in which I don't want to fight,” said Milanović on national TV. “I want honest rules of play and the kind of company that is capable, under the given circumstances, of progress, employment, investment development and reinvesting profits.”
The PM stated that he did not take either side in the dispute over INA’s management, but instead represented the stakeholders’ interests.
The interview followed an announcement on Monday from Croatia’s National Economy Minister Ivan Vrdoljak which stated that a proposal for a new round of negotiations would be sent to MOL officials next week. Vrdoljak further opined that said next round would take place by mid-May.
Vrdoljak left his meet with media with a parting shot which may have induced Milanović’s remarks, stating that MOL representatives had “informed the public [about the negotiations with Croatian government officials] incorrectly on several occasions.”
MOL holds a little less than 50% of INA’s shares, and the state of Croatia owns about 45%; disputes regarding obligations outlined in the shareholders’ agreement have been sources of tension between the two parties, and MOL recently announced its board having mandated preparations for the possible sale of its INA stake.
Additionally, MOL chairman/CEO Zsolt Hernádi is still wanted for questioning by Croatian authorities for his part in the bribery of former Croatian prime minister Ivo Sanader.
Hungary Gasoline Prices 3% Over Regional Avg
Hungary to Address Future of Cohesion Policy During EU Presi...
Cordia’s Marina City Project Begins
Budapest Airport Wins 'Best Airport in Eastern Europe' for 1...
SUPPORT THE BUDAPEST BUSINESS JOURNAL
Producing journalism that is worthy of the name is a costly business. For 27 years, the publishers, editors and reporters of the Budapest Business Journal have striven to bring you business news that works, information that you can trust, that is factual, accurate and presented without fear or favor.
Newspaper organizations across the globe have struggled to find a business model that allows them to continue to excel, without compromising their ability to perform. Most recently, some have experimented with the idea of involving their most important stakeholders, their readers.
We would like to offer that same opportunity to our readers. We would like to invite you to help us deliver the quality business journalism you require. Hit our Support the BBJ button and you can choose the how much and how often you send us your contributions.
