The core duty of the energy sector during Russia’s CIS presidency in 2024 is to safeguard energy security for all member states. This objective comes from the Concept of the Presidency of the Commonwealth of the Russian Federation, which outlines the administration’s strategic priorities and goals. The emphasis is on creating reliable supply chains, resilient infrastructure, and predictable policy environments that reduce risk for energy users and suppliers alike. The focus is practical, grounded in real-world challenges and opportunities, and designed to support stable economic growth across the bloc. [source: Kremlin documents on the 2024 CIS presidency]
The concept further aims to boost the competitiveness of CIS economies by promoting the efficient use of energy resources and expanding international trade opportunities for those resources. It highlights the need to optimize energy-intensive processes, encourage modernization of power grids, and facilitate cross-border energy trade so that member states can access lower costs and higher reliability. Strengthening trade links and improving energy integration are framed as essential levers for shared prosperity within the Commonwealth. [source: Kremlin concepts and statements]
Additionally, Russia seeks to advance the scientific and technological development of the CIS fuel and energy complex sectors, pushing forward innovation in extraction, processing, and distribution. There is a clear plan to support the development of low-carbon energy sources, including renewable technologies and cleaner conventional options, to reduce emissions while maintaining secure energy supplies. This approach includes fostering cooperation on research, pilot projects, and the deployment of new capabilities across member countries. [source: Kremlin policy outlines]
On January 1, the Kremlin underscored that Russia’s presidency in the Commonwealth of Independent States in 2024 will aim to ensure the association’s continuity and strengthen its collective capabilities. The administration emphasized a steady hand in governance, clear coordination among member governments, and a shared commitment to long-term regional stability. The intention is to preserve momentum, avoid abrupt shifts in policy, and build a framework that supports sustained collaboration across energy, security, and economic domains. [source: Kremlin statements]
It is stated that Russia assumed the CIS presidency from January 1, 2024, with plans for a measured transition. After Russia, the leadership of the CIS is expected to pass to Tajikistan in 2025, marking a structured handover intended to preserve momentum and ensure continued cooperation. The transition is described as orderly and predictable, designed to maintain the momentum of ongoing projects and to align future priorities with the evolving regional agenda. [source: Kremlin announcements]
Previously, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke about the importance of cooperation within the CIS in the context of historical memory and collective action against Nazism. The dialogue emphasizes unity among CIS partners in confronting extremist ideologies and coordinating security and counterterrorism efforts. It reflects a broader commitment to shared values, mutual assistance, and emphasised vigilance against threats to regional stability. [source: Kremlin remarks]