Russia and Kazakhstan agree to expand joint energy projects and infrastructure

Russia and Kazakhstan have expressed mutual interest in developing joint energy projects and expanding their transport and logistics infrastructure to increase hydrocarbon supplies between the two nations. The commitment was announced following negotiations between Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilyov and Kazakhstani Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov, which took place during Russian President Vladimir Putin's state visit to Kazakhstan. The Russian Energy Ministry stated that both countries aim to create additional opportunities to boost supply volumes through enhanced infrastructure development. Tsivilyov emphasised that the infrastructure expansion is essential and serves the interests of both nations. Russian and Kazakhstani companies are currently engaged in discussions to determine the parameters for further infrastructure expansion, including pricing structures, investment levels, and the technical implementation of projects in both countries. The negotiations culminated in the signing of an intergovernmental agreement specifically focused on expanding cooperation in the oil sector between the two nations.