Russia's Transport Ministry denied that Deutsche Lufthansa has had its rights to cross Russian airspace restored until the end of February 2008 as part of a deal with Russian authorities, saying that Lufthansa Cargo only has permission to cross Russian airspace until November 15.
The German Transport Ministry spokesman said there has been an agreement regarding overflight rights for Lufthansa over Russia and the overflight rights will be extended past November 15, until the end of February 2008.
The Russian official said that the German announcement is premature and that Russia is still reviewing proposals made by Lufthansa.
Lufthansa Cargo hasn't been allowed to fly over or stop in Russia since its winter flight schedule for 2007 to 2008 started on October 27, following a dispute with the Russian authorities over the location of its hub in the broader region. The restriction was lifted temporarily last Friday, when overflights were granted until November 15.
Russia had demanded that Lufthansa move its cargo hub to Krasnojarsk in Siberia from Astana in Kazakhstan, although the German firm opposed the suggestion, saying technical equipment at Krasnojarsk is insufficient.
German Transport Minister Wolfgang Tiefensee said talks about possibly moving the cargo hub would be conducted in December.
Tiefensee said the government is confident of finding a quick solution that's sustainable in the long-term for the German as well as the Russian side.
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