Algeria's Khelil expects oil prices to remain high throughout 2006

16/04/2006

[File] Khelil

In an interview with Arab Oil and Gas magazine on Saturday (15 April), Algerian Energy and Mining Minister Chakib Khelil voiced surprise over the strong climb of oil prices during the year, but predicted that the trend, generated by political and strategic elements, will continue at least until the end of 2006. According to him, the problems in Iraq, Nigeria, Venezuela, Russia and Iran, as well as US issues, including the approach of the summer driving season and difficulties faced by the refinery industry from last year's hurricanes, are all factors playing a role in oil prices. (APS, AP, Reuters)