RIA Novosti cited Mr Dmitry Medvedev Russian President as saying that the Nord Stream gas pipeline which will be launched on Tuesday will help enhance Europe's energy security.

He said that "This is a long-awaited event which signifies the strengthening of relations between Russia and the European Union. This event will enhance the security regime including energy security in Europe."

The pipeline will deliver Russian gas via the Baltic Sea to Germany, bypassing key transit countries Ukraine and Belarus. Russia provides up to 30% of the gas consumed in Europe.

The USD 11 billion Nord Stream project includes two roughly parallel pipelines with an overall annual capacity of 55 billion cubic meters.

(Sourced from RIA Novosti)