MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Saturday the commencement of gas supplies to Uzbekistan through Kazakhstan, marking a significant development for both nations and providing a boost for Russia’s industry amid ongoing Western sanctions linked to the conflict in Ukraine.
Despite its abundant natural resources, including gas, Uzbekistan has grappled with energy shortages. In a meeting held in Moscow, Putin, along with his counterparts from Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, officially inaugurated the gas shipments.
Describing it as the “largest trilateral energy project” between the three ex-Soviet countries, Putin emphasized the significance of this venture. The project aims to address Uzbekistan’s energy scarcity while providing Kazakhstan with a solution for gasification in its northern and eastern regions. Putin expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts of Russia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan in tackling complex tasks and ensuring successful project implementation.
Energy Cooperation Between Russia, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan
The meeting in Moscow focused on expanding cooperation in the energy sector, indicating a strategic alignment in addressing regional energy needs. While Central Asian nations, including Kazakhstan, have expressed concerns amid Russia’s conflict with Ukraine, they maintain strong political and economic ties with Moscow. The trilateral initiative highlights the region’s efforts to bolster energy security and enhance collaboration in the face of global energy challenges.
Russia’s gas exports have faced a decline, with a 21.5 percent decrease in 2022, primarily due to reduced imports by the European Union, once a major buyer of Russian gas. The trilateral gas supply project marks a significant step toward addressing energy demands, potentially fostering stability and growth in the participating nations.
