Ukrainian Journal cited Mr Volodymyr Ivaschenko an advisor to the ecology and natural resources minister as saying that Ukraine is planning to announce tenders to attract investors to develop the Oleske and Yuzovska shale gas fields by February 22.

He said that "Open tenders to sign production sharing agreements for the Oleske and Yuzovska fields will be announced by February 22 2012."

Mr Ivaschenko said that the winner would automatically obtain permits to explore the fields.

(Sourced from Ukrainian Journal)