MOSCOW, December 7 (RIA Novosti) - The Russian government may approve documents on lifting the "ring fence" from around energy giant Gazprom's common shares by December 20, a government source said Wednesday.
"The legal department of the presidential staff is currently considering the documents drafted by the Economic Development and Trade Ministry (two government resolutions and a presidential decree)," he said.
The source also said the signing of these documents would coincide with the adoption of amendments to the law "On Natural Gas Distribution in Russia". The second reading of the bill is slated for December 9 and the Federation Council, parliament's upper chamber, should approve it on December 14.
"All documents [on Gazprom's share liberalization] may be signed December 16-19," the source said.
The adoption of these documents will lift the existing restrictions on the sale of Gazprom shares abroad and their purchase by foreigners.
The documents were coordinated with all relevant departments, including the Justice Ministry.
