Russia and the European Commission (EC) signed Saturday the agreement establishing a monitoring commission to oversee the supply of Russian natural gas via the Ukraine, the Russian information agency ITAR-TASS reported.

The report cites Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin who made the announcement in Moscow after the conclusion of negotiations with the Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek, whose country holds the EU presidency.

According to Putin, the agreement has been signed by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Igor Sechin, the "Gazprom" CEO Alexei Miller and the Czech Industry and Trade Minister.

Putin stated that the Ukrainian side would be promptly informed about the agreement.

The establishment of a monitoring system for the Russian gas transit via the Ukraine was a key element in the restoring of natural gas supply to European consumers.

Moscow is accusing Ukraine of stealing gas destined for Europe while the Ukraine adamantly denies the accusations.

Earlier on Saturday, the Ukraine announced that they would supply natural gas to Moldova and Bulgaria from the country's own reserves. The decision has been made by the Ukrainian President Victor Yushchenko and was confirmed by the President's press office in Kiev, cited by ITAR-TASS.

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