In a recent interview with The Times of Central Asia, Shaimerden Chikanayev, GRATA International Partner, discussed the significant shift in Russia's energy exports and its implications for Central Asia. Following the closure of key pipelines to Europe, Russia has redirected its gas supplies towards Central Asia, positioning the region as a crucial transit and consumption hub.
Shaimerden highlighted that this strategic realignment not only ensures a stable outlet for Russian gas exports but also offers Central Asian countries access to affordable energy resources. This access enables nations like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to meet rising domestic demands while fulfilling export commitments to markets such as China.
However, Shaimerden pointed out a paradox: despite being resource-rich, countries like Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan face energy challenges due to historical underinvestment in their gas and power sectors since the USSR's collapse. This includes neglecting the development of new gas fields and modernizing energy infrastructure.