31/03/2022 (Agence Europe) – The European Commission decided on Thursday 31 March to close its investigation into liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply agreements between Qatar Energy and several European gas importers. On 21 June 2018, the European Commission had opened an investigation into Qatar Energy (formerly Qatar Petroleum), as certain clauses in its supply agreements appeared to restrict the freedom of European gas importers to sell LNG in alternative destinations within the European Economic Area. These clauses were suspected of preventing or limiting the free movement of LNG within the internal market, in violation of EU competition rules. The European Commission has analysed all relevant evidence, including information received from Qatar Energy and European gas importers. The European Commission concluded that the evidence gathered did not confirm its initial concerns. (LC)