Uzbekistan and Russia are engaged in discussions aimed at solidifying a new long-term gas contract, potentially with increased supply volumes, TASS news agency reported on February 9.
Russian Ambassador to Uzbekistan Oleg Malginov emphasized the significance of Russian gas in stabilizing Uzbekistan's economy, particularly in the face of challenging weather conditions experienced in the past year. He stated,
"Yes, Russian gas has arrived, and this is quite a significant contribution to the stabilization of the economy and social life of Uzbekistan. Last year it was a little cold and frosty here, but this year we went through without any problems."
The discussions come on the heels of the Uzbek-Russian intergovernmental commission's identification of over 80 projects in December 2023.
However, amidst these negotiations, there are external players purportedly opposing Uzbekistan's potential membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Despite this opposition, the issue of Uzbekistan's entry into the economic association remains on the bilateral agenda, as highlighted by Ambassador Malginov.
Efforts to expedite Uzbekistan's accession to the EAEU are underway, with a working group tasked with developing a draft reform of legislation and procedures tailored to Uzbekistan's specific circumstances. Ambassador Malginov expressed optimism regarding the acceleration of Uzbekistan's accession process to the Eurasian Economic Union in the near future.
The commitment to long-term collaboration in the gas sector was further underscored by Gazprom's announcement in October 2023, wherein the company's head, Alexey Miller, disclosed ongoing discussions for a 15-year cooperation agreement between Central Asian countries and Russia. Gazprom aims to enhance supply capabilities through the expansion of the Central Asia-Center gas pipeline system.
Moreover, the involvement of Canadian company Condor in boosting gas production in Uzbekistan indicates a diversified approach towards meeting energy demands and enhancing domestic capabilities.
Earlier Daryo reported that Canadian energy transition company, Condor Energies, revealed on January 31st that it has finalized a contract with the Uzbekistan government aimed at enhancing production from a group of eight conventional natural gas-condensate fields in the country. This endeavor, conducted in partnership with Uzbekneftegaz (UNG), the national oil and gas company, is strategically designed to elevate production levels and improve overall recovery rates. The initiative is in line with Uzbekistan's objectives of augmenting domestic natural gas supply and mitigating carbon emissions.
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