Kyrgyzstan explores refinery, pipeline projects with Chinese energy giants

Kyrgyzstan and China are exploring a range of joint projects in the oil and gas sector, including the construction of an oil refinery, exploration and development of hydrocarbon deposits, and new oil storage infrastructure, Kyrgyz Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry Erlist Akunbekov said.

During meetings in Beijing, Akunbekov held talks with Dai Houliang, chairman of the board of China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), and Hou Qijun, chairman of the board of Sinopec.

The sides discussed plans to build an oil refinery in Kyrgyzstan, explore and develop oil and gas fields, and construct a pipeline to transport petroleum products across the Kyrgyz-Chinese border.

They also considered building oil storage facilities near the Torugart and Erkeshtam border checkpoints. The facilities are expected to help reduce logistics costs associated with fuel deliveries.

Akunbekov said his talks with Chinese oil companies were being held in line with President Sadyr Japarov’s instructions to ensure stable and uninterrupted supplies of petroleum products to Kyrgyzstan. The discussions come against the backdrop of developments in Central Asia’s oil market and the need to further strengthen cooperation in the sector.

Kyrgyz companies are currently concluding agreements with CNPC and Sinopec that are helping ensure regular deliveries of petroleum products to the country. Representatives of Kyrgyz businesses also participated in the delegation to facilitate new agreements with the Chinese companies.

The parties agreed on the importance of expanding cooperation in the oil sector and continuing efforts to develop joint projects.

By Tamilla Hasanova