The Minister of Energy noted that negotiations are underway on the supply of Russian gas through the pipeline through Kazakhstan, but it will be a “technical contract” and not an alliance.
Uzbek Energy Minister Zhorabek Mirzamakhmudov criticized Russia’s proposal for a “gas union” involving the Central Asian country, saying Tashkent would not agree to political terms that would endanger its national interests. This was reported by Reuters.
As you know, last month Russia said it was discussing a gas alliance with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to support supplies between the three countries and other buyers, including China.
According to Mirzamakhmudov, Uzbekistan has not yet received an offer. “Even if a gas agreement is signed with Russia, it does not mean an alliance,” he said, noting that negotiations are underway to supply Russian gas through a pipeline through Kazakhstan, but this will be a “technical contract” and not an alliance.
“If we import gas from other countries, we cooperate only on the basis of a commercial contract of sale. We will never agree to political conditions in exchange for gas. In short, we will only accept a gas contract that is offered to us if we agree, if not – no,” said Mirzamakhmudov.
However, Uzbekistan is still partially dependent on foreign gas. Tashkent has experienced gas shortages for the past few days as consumption has increased due to cold weather.
Mirzamakhmudov said the cold snap forced Uzbekistan to stop exporting 6 million cubic meters of gas per day to China.
He noted that the country produces about 52 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year, while imports reach 4 billion cubic meters, and exports – 2.7 billion cubic meters.
Recall that gas exports from Russia continue to decline.
It has also been reported that Germany has eliminated its dependence on Russian gas.
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Source: korrespondent
I am David Wyatt, a professional writer and journalist for Buna Times. I specialize in the world section of news coverage, where I bring to light stories and issues that affect us globally. As a graduate of Journalism, I have always had the passion to spread knowledge through writing.