Rosneft has said it may consider taking part in the privatisation of its smaller rival Bashneft.
Russia’s largest oil producer said it could make the move once the government defines the rules of the sale, according to a spokesman.
He also said that Roseft “has experience of integrating large assets”.
The government has previously revealed plans to sell 50% plus one share in Bashneft as part of a wider privatisation of state assets.