Date:04/06/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/06/04/stories/2005060402600300.htm

Back Lankan Govt conscious of dues to IOC: Aiyar

Our Bureau

New Delhi , June 3

THE Sri Lankan Government is "deeply conscious" of what it owes the Indian Oil Corporation and there is no cause for concern, the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Mr Mani Shankar Aiyar, said here today.

The public sector oil major runs several petrol stations in Sri Lanka.

He was speaking to the media after meeting the Sri Lankan President, Ms Chandrika Kumaratunga.

The Minister said that several issues including the progress at the tank farm at Trincomalee were discussed.

At the meeting the issue of Bharat Petroleum participating in bidding for some oil companies in Sri Lanka and India helping the island nation in deep water exploration was also taken up.