China and Gazprom Move to Accelerate Far East Gas Deliveries
China is pressing ahead with plans to speed up Russian gas shipments through the Far East route, signaling a deeper energy partnership between two major energy players. Xie Jun, the vice chairman of the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), confirmed the push during the St. Petersburg Gas Forum, noting that CNPC and Gazprom are jointly prioritizing and accelerating the gas supply project along the Far East corridor. This update comes from a statement made on November 1 in St. Petersburg and reported by Interfax. (Source: Interfax)
According to Jun, the collaboration seeks to streamline the project timeline and bring gas delivery closer to reality, with both companies pursuing a more integrated energy partnership. The goal is to advance the Far East route as a central artery for cross-border gas trade, aligning with broader strategic aims shared by Moscow and Beijing to diversify energy supplies and strengthen bilateral ties. (Source: Interfax)
Earlier coverage indicated that the February contract envisions supplying up to 10 billion cubic meters of gas annually to China for a minimum of 25 years, underscoring a long-term commitment framed by market demand and regional energy considerations. Analysts have monitored the deal as a potential template for future Eurasian energy projects that link Russian gas to Chinese markets at scale. (Source: Interfax)
Previously, Gazprom chief Alexey Miller stated that deliveries could begin in 2027 at the latest. The narrative shifted in September when President Vladimir Putin signaled openness to accelerating the project’s timeline. Putin remarked that strong prospects for expanding cooperation with friendly nations justify moving ahead more quickly with capacities such as the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, alongside existing routes in the Far East. The president’s remarks reflect a political and economic impetus to shorten development horizons and capitalize on growing energy demand across Asia. (Source: Interfax)
In related remarks, a government minister outlined conditions under which gas prices in Europe might decline, a discussion that sits against the backdrop of global energy market volatility. The broader context suggests a deliberate effort by Russia and its partners to diversify supply channels and smooth price dynamics for major buyers in Asia, including China. (Source: Interfax)
As the conversation progresses, the focus remains on aligning commercial timelines with regulatory, technical, and geopolitical realities. The Far East route represents a strategic option for channeling Russia’s gas flows toward Asia, with potential benefits for regional energy security, domestic industry, and international energy diplomacy. Stakeholders keep a close eye on how this collaboration evolves, particularly in the wake of global energy market shifts and ongoing investments in transmission infrastructure. (Source: Interfax)