Vladimir Putin, who is going to Austria...
Iran.The problem with Nabucco is that it may be short of gas, whereas South Stream is an almost solid reality. If Russia and Austria sign an agreement during Putin"s visit, this will be a big victory for Russia and a major blow to Nabucco.
However, Russia should make an attractive offer to Austria to convince it to sign the agreement.
Austria has been worried by imbalances in mutual trade, which is currently worth only $5 billion, although Russian exports of energy and raw materials to Austria have grown considerably.
Russian exports to Austria grew nearly 72% in January 2010, while imports from Austria fell 28%.
Austria would like Russia to change this imbalance, which means that Russia will have to make an attractive compensation offer to ensure Austria"s agreement to join South Stream.
The opinions expressed in this article are the author"s and do not necessarily represent those of RIA Novosti.