Gazprom wants a slice of BP's Algerian pie

ALGIERS, Algeria, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- Russian energy company Gazprom would consider purchasing BP's assets in Algeria if a deal was put on the table, a Gazprom executive announced.

BP is looking to raise money to cover expenses from the Gulf of Mexico oil spill by offloading overseas assets.

Alexei Miller, the chief executive at gas monopoly Gazprom, said his company was interested in Algerian assets if BP was willing to move on its portfolio there, Russia's state-run news agency RIA Novosti reports.

"If the Algerian side offers these assets to us, we will consider this possibility," he said.

Miller's statement came during a state visit to Algeria by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.

Anglo-Russian venture TNK-BP said it was considering the acquisition of Algerian assets from its sister company BP as well.

BP has significant interests in Algeria, touting itself as the largest foreign investor in the country. Its assets in Algeria are valued at around $3 billion.