AKIPRESS.COM - Iran has prepared the required documents to file a lawsuit in the International Court of Arbitration against Turkmenistan for its failure to supply gas to the Islamic Republic in winter, Tasnimreported citing the managing director of the National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC).

“The price of gas, the damage they (Turkmens) inflicted on Iran in winter by cutting off gas supplies, and the quality of gas delivered to Iran are three cases claimed by Iran,” Hamid Reza Araqi said.

“Iran’s documents are ready to be submitted to the International Court of Arbitration,” he said, adding that Turkmenistan has been notified of the decision.

However, Araqi said, Iran would not refer the case to the international court if the NIGC and Turkmengaz reach an understanding.

Iran has imported natural gas from Turkmenistan since 1997 for distribution in the north of the country, furthest from the gas resources in the south.

Turkmens occasionally cut off gas shipments and raise their prices during days of freezing temperatures and blizzard in Iran.