Gazprom’s CEO, Aleksey Miller, has announced that Russia is planning long-term cooperation in natural gas supplies with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan over the next 15 years. In an interview released on Sunday, Miller emphasized that, until recently, Russia’s engagement with its Central Asian allies had been short-term. However, the focus has now shifted to establishing a 15-year horizon for collaboration.
When asked about the reversal of natural gas flow from Russia to Central Asia, as opposed to the Soviet era, Miller attributed it to Russia’s expanding natural resource base, which currently leads the world in production. He also highlighted the rapid development of the Central Asian countries, acknowledging their dynamic growth rate.
It was revealed earlier this month that Gazprom intends to expand natural gas supplies to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan through the Central Asia-Center (CAC) pipeline system. The parties involved aim to establish a contractual basis for cooperation by mid-2024. The CAC is an onshore pipeline project operated by Gazprom, stretching over 4,892km and carrying natural gas from Turkmenistan, through Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, to Russia. This expansion is expected to boost Russian gas supplies to Central Asia to approximately 20 billion cubic meters by 2030.
This strategic move by Gazprom reflects Russia’s commitment to strengthening its ties with key allies in the region and securing long-term partnerships for natural gas supplies. The expansion of natural gas supplies to Central Asia not only aligns with Russia’s economic interests but also contributes to the energy security and development of the recipient countries.
The collaborative efforts between Russia and its Central Asian partners signify a shift towards broader and more sustainable cooperation, setting a precedent for long-term engagement in the region’s energy sector. This strategic vision for the future demonstrates Russia’s intention to play a pivotal role in shaping the energy landscape of Central Asia for years to come.
As Moscow sets out its plans for cooperation with key allies in the region, the stage is being set for a new era of economic and energy collaboration that is poised to transform the dynamics of the Central Asian energy market. This long-term strategy paves the way for enhanced regional integration and economic development, positioning Russia as a key player in driving sustainable growth and stability in Central Asia. With a focus on mutual benefits and shared prosperity, the envisioned 15-year horizon embodies the spirit of enduring partnership and collaboration between Russia and its Central Asian allies.
The expansion of natural gas supplies and the establishment of long-term cooperation agreements underscore the deepening ties between Russia and Central Asia, signaling a strategic shift towards sustainable development and mutual prosperity in the region’s energy sector. As Gazprom’s CEO outlines the roadmap for a 15-year horizon, the vision for enhanced energy cooperation and economic integration takes center stage, laying the foundation for a new chapter in the economic and energy relations between Russia and its Central Asian partners.
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