KHARKIV, Feb. 21 - Shell is prepared to clarify its plans to Ukrainian citizens concerned about the impact of shale gas production, Graham Tiley, the head of Shell in Ukraine, said in Kharkiv.

"In a democratic country like Ukraine, everybody is entitled to express their point of view, including by protests, and I respect that right. We for our part are committed to meeting with those who are concerned for any reason, and explain our plans from the point of view of logic and the facts," Tiley said, when asked whether the company would drop its plans to produce shale gas in the region if protests by local residents continue.

Tiley said environmental work safety has been and would remain a priority for Shell, including when it develops the Yuzovske deposit in Kharkiv and Donetsk regions.