The government of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Area in West Siberia has signed a cooperation agreement for 2017-2019 with Lukoil, Russia's largest private oil company. The agreement was signed by Lukoil CEO Vagit Alekperov and Yamal Governor Dmitry Kobylkin, reads a statement on the Yamal government's website.

The Yamal government and Lukoil plan to strengthen cooperation in several areas. "Lukoil and its subsidiaries will take nature protection measures, in particular, conduct environmental monitoring and protect the human and economic environment of the small indigenous peoples of the North. Acting in keeping with legislation, the parties will join forces to provide relief in case of natural disasters and emergencies," reads the Yamal government's statement.

The parties have also agreed to continue their cooperation to stimulate investment, research, technological and innovation activities and to implement public-private partnership projects.

In 2017, Lukoil will help the administration of Tazovsky build an apartment building and a multi-purpose sports complex with a swimming pool. Lukoil will provide assistance to the Russian Arctic Development Center's environmental and research projects on the Gydan Peninsula and Bely and Vilkitsky islands. The company will also help the Yamine Charitable Fund arrange medical treatment and diagnostics for children with severe diseases and disabilities, and will assist the Arctic Wings Federation of Light and Ultralight Aviation in the development of hang-gliding and airborne tourism.

"Everyone, especially those who live in remote townships where Lukoil has operations, will benefit from our partnership. A large sports center will be built in Tazovsky, the only district center that doesn't have a sports center. I think we will build it within three years. And Lukoil's contribution to environmental and charity programs is absolutely invaluable," Governor Dmitry Kobylkin said about the agreement.

Lukoil will also finance programs of the judo, figure skating and ice hockey federations of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Area.

The agreement is effective from January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2019.