FITCH RATINGS REVISES GAZPROM LIABILITIES RATING FORECAST

MOSCOW, Nov 18 (RIA Novosti) - Fitch Ratings, an international rating agency, has revised the watch on Gazprom's unsecured liabilities ("BB") in the foreign and national currencies from evolving to positive, reads a press release of the agency.

Gazprom ratings have been put on the Rating Watch list for possible increase after the increase of Russia's sovereign rating Thursday.

The agency notes that the probability of rating revision increases in connection with the company's strategic partnership with the state and the expected boost of the company's efficiency after a merger with Rosneft. Rating decline as a result of this merger is unlikely, believes Fitch. At the same time, any negative news will make Gazprom rating permanent.

Fitch notes Gazprom's strategic importance for the state and for the rating of state support.

Gazprom ratings have been watched since September after a merger with Rosneft was announced, which may cause the state share in Gazprom to increase to 50% plus one share.