The Kazakhstani government is engaging with German firms to boost oil deliveries to Germany via the Druzhba pipeline. The plan envisions raising the throughput to about 2 million tons, as reported by TASS, citing remarks from Almasadam Satkaliev, head of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy. This move reflects ongoing efforts by Kazakhstan to diversify energy export routes and strengthen energy links with European partners in the wake of shifting market dynamics. (Source: TASS)
Officials indicate that initial discussions have already begun with their counterparts to explore the practical steps needed to implement this transition within the current year. The goal is to ensure a smoother, reliable flow of oil through the Druzhba corridor, aligning with broader strategic objectives in both Kazakhstan and Germany. (Source: TASS)
Data on European oil supply through Druzhba show a sharp reduction in shipments from Russia to Europe through the pipeline by the end of 2023, with volumes decreasing by roughly 60 percent. Alternative routes and port terminals in Russia absorbed some of the redirected traffic. For instance, shipments via Novorossiysk rose by about 3.1 percent, Primorsk saw a 6.5 percent increase, and Ust-Luga experienced a 9 percent uptick. These shifts illustrate how the European market rebalanced flows in response to logistical constraints and policy changes during that period. (Source: Energy market reports, corroborated by TASS)
Previously, Kazakh officials had emphasized the absence of territorial disputes with the Russian Federation, underscoring a continued state of cordial relations between Moscow and Astana. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has repeatedly highlighted that both nations pursue cooperative engagement, including energy collaboration, while maintaining sovereign distinctions. This backdrop shapes Kazakhstan’s approach to energy projects that traverse regional channels such as the Druzhba pipeline. (Source: Official statements, reported through TASS)
Analysts have also weighed the broader implications of Europe’s decision not to route Russian gas through Ukraine. The resulting realignment has created both challenges and opportunities for neighboring producers and transit countries. For Kazakhstan, the potential expansion of oil shipments to Germany via Druzhba represents a tangible channel to participate in the European energy market while balancing domestic production capabilities with international demand. (Source: market analysis summaries, cited by TASS)