The Role of Government in Internationalization of Russian Oil and Gas MNCs in Western Balkan

Abstract

The main goal of this thesis is to investigate the strategic behavior of Russian oil and gas MNCs in the Western Balkan region in regards with their relationship with Russian and local governments. In order to do so, this thesis analyzed companies’ decisions to internationalize from three levels: country, industry and firm. In addition to this, it analyzed its entry strategies and post entry operations, with special attention given to interaction between companies and host governments and the role of Russian government in this interaction. Data was collected through several interviews with prominent political and economic figures, and managers from the oil and gas and energy industry. The case study analysis showed certain strategic patterns that companies used and a difference between state and privately owned companies. It also showed the importance of the role of Russian government in internationalization decisions, especially in state owned companies.