Interfax cited Mr Klaus Mangold chairman of the Eastern Committee of German Industry as saying that German businesses expect the construction of the Nord Stream gas pipeline to begin in spring 2010.

Mr Mangold said after German businessmen met with Russian Prime Minister Mr Vladimir Putin "We hope the construction of the pipeline will begin in spring 2010."

Mr Mangold said when asked whether the number of participants in the project could be enlarged "We have no concrete plans to enlarge the partnership. But we are open to new partners."

(Sourced from Interfax)