Abstract Conditions for the metalation of 2, 6-dichloro-and 2, 6-dimethoxy-pyrazine are defined and the lithio-derivatives are shown to react with some electrophiles. A convenient synthesis of a diazaxanthone from the lithio-derivative of the dichloro-compound is described. Couplings between phenylacetylene and iodo-derivatives of pyrazine have been carried out.