Russian oil producer Rosneft is on pace to become a private enterprise by the end of the year, a Russian economic official declared Thursday. The Kremlin has been reviewing privatization options as the Russian economy risks lingering in recession because of the strains brought on by Western sanctions and low crude oil prices. Economic Development Minister Alexei Ulyukayev said some of those plans could be finalized yet this year. “We’ll make it in time regarding Rosneft privatization this year,” he was quoted by Russian news agency Tass as saying. Tass reported previously the government’s release of a 19.5 percent stake was still possible in 2016, though aides to Russian President Vladimir Putin said delays were not out of the question . With Russia’s economy […]