Azerbaijani president decrees to write off populations's natural gas debts

According to the decree, debts of AZN 327 million (over $400 million) accrued for years as at October 1, 2009 owed to AzeriGas state body is written off.

AzeriGaz is a state body under the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR).

The amount of written off debt will be compensated to SOCAR from the state budget, the decree says.

SOCAR is also tasked to take necessary measures to fully collect bills for gas after that.

The Cabinet of Minister is ordered to ensure the payment of compensation provided for in the decree, and submit proposals to the President of Azerbaijan on the issue.

/APA/