According to Daniel Barcelo, an oil and gas analyst at Lehmen Brothers, the deal will significantly raise the firm's profile internationally.

FORBES: ENI Wins In Kazakstan

"It is now time for Congress to take action to bring to these 3.8 million U.S. citizens political, economic and social equality, " said Romero-Barcelo.

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Barcelo mentions TotalFinaElf as a prime contender in such an event.

FORBES: ENI Wins In Kazakstan

Barcelo indicated that the Kashagan deal should help ENI close the valuation gap with its peers, but if there are problems and the gap doesn't close, then the company will become a prime takeover target.

FORBES: ENI Wins In Kazakstan