Russian energy minister confirms Doha oil meeting

Russia's energy minister confirmed on Wednesday that a meeting of OPEC members and non-OPEC nations would go ahead next month to discuss the possibility of a production freeze.

Alexander Novak told media that a statement on the oil production freeze would be likely agreed in Doha on April 17. Qatar was to send invitations for the meeting.

A production freeze agreement was tentatively agreed last month, and so far 15 countries had confirmed their participation.

Novak said Iran had indicated it was ready to join the meeting, having visited Tehran on Monday.