OREANDA-NEWS. December 18, 2009. The United Kingdom’s special representative for international trade and investment, Prince Andrew the Duke of York, voiced hope during a meeting in TNK-BP’s offices that relations between the oil company’s Russian and British shareholders, like those between Russia and the UK, will in time become global, reported the press-centre of TNK-BP.

“Relations between the United Kingdom and Russia have a long history of development. At the same time, the relations between TNK-BP’s Russian and British shareholders are a part of modern history. And this is an example of how relations between Russia and the United Kingdom can grow stronger not only in Russia, but over time on the international stage as well”, he said.

The Executive Chairman of TNK-BP’s Board, Mikhail Fridman, thanked the British royal family for their interest in TNK-BP and expressed the hope that this support will have a substantial impact on the company’s development.

Fridman noted that TNK-BP is still the biggest British investment in Russia.

“Patronage from the British royal family is a symbolic thing. We are grateful that the Prince continues to follow TNK-BP’s fortunes, and my conversation with him shows that the Prince is deeply immersed in TNK-BP’s activities. I hope that, with his support, the company can be successful both in Russia and abroad”, he said.

The Duke of York arrived in Russia on a working trip, during which he visited TNK-BP. In 2004, the Duke opened the TNK-BP building at 1 Arbat Street.

The Duke of York is the second son of Queen Elizabeth II and the younger brother of the heir to the throne, Prince Charles. TNK-BP is a major oil company and is owned equally by its Russian and British shareholders.