20/03/2012 (Agence Europe) - Mergers: Yamal/Total and OAO Novatek. On Tuesday 20 March, the European Commission granted clearance to the planned acquisition of joint control of Russia's Yamal LNG by Total E&P Yamal of France (ultimately controlled by Total S.A. of France) and OAO Novatek of the Russian Federation. Yamal LNG is a joint venture that will be active in the exploration for and production of hydrocarbon raw materials in the Russian Federation. OAO Novatek is active in the exploration, production, processing and marketing of natural gas and liquid hydrocarbons. The deal was examined under the simplified merger review procedure. (FG/transl.fl)