The files we follow: Influence diplomacy in Central Asia; Energy and natural resources diplomacy in Central Asia; Political and security issues in Central Asia.
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A Potential Russia-Kazakhstan-China Gas Pipeline
Russia is considering constructing a gas pipeline to China via Kazakhstan, sparking discussions within the latter. On November 25, QazaqGaz spokesperson Mukhit Ykylyas announced that this project is being developed in collaboration with the Russian company Gazprom. The gas consumption volumes in northern and eastern Kazakhstan are under review, along with pricing and transportation to China.
However, Kazakhstan’s Energy Minister Almassadam Satkaliyev has not confirmed these negotiations but expressed the country’s interest in transiting Russian gas to China. He clarified that Kazakhstan’s support would depend on securing a share of the gas at an agreed price for its domestic market.
China Strengthens Its Position as a Gas Importer from Uzbekistan in 2024
Gas deliveries between Uzbekistan and China increased in 2024. According to data from Tashkent, gas deliveries to China amounted to $540.4 million in 2024, marking a 17.9% increase compared to the previous year. However, Beijing’s data shows a figure of $587.9 million, reflecting a 25% rise from 2023.
Turkmenistan Strengthens Ties with Neighbor Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan has agreed to increase its imports of natural gas from Turkmenistan. This decision comes as Uzbekistan’s domestic gas production declines, dropping from 51.7 billion m³ in 2022 to 46.7 billion m³ in 2023. The agreement aims to answer to the country’s growing energy needs, as it already imports gas from Russia and China.
Turkmenistan, rich in gas resources, sees this agreement as an opportunity to diversify its exports following the end of a contract with Russia, its former second-largest client. Turkmen gas, historically sold at competitive prices, may also be more advantageous for Uzbekistan compared to Russian gas.
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