"From 2019 and at $50 per barrel our cash flow could cover our dividend entirely," Pouyanne told shareholders during an annual gathering in Paris.

"In 2018, it will depend on the price of crude," Pouyanne said, adding that once that happens, the group would be in a position to launch a share buy-back programme.

(Reporting by Bate Felix; Editing by Geert De Clercq)