Kazakhstan, U.S. discuss joint projects, sanctions impact on Kazakh oil exports

ASTANA. March 13 (Interfax) - Kazakh Energy Minister Almassadam Satkaliyev and U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright discussed joint projects in the oil and gas sector, as well as the impact of sanctions on the stability of Kazakh oil supplies to global markets, at a meeting during the international energy conference CERAWeek 2025 in Houston, the Kazakh Energy Ministry said.

"The discussions focused on the implementation of joint oil and gas projects, the development of a strategic energy dialogue between the two countries, as well as the diversification of energy supplies and the cooperation in green energy initiatives," it said.

The ministers reviewed the progress of major projects such as Kashagan, Tengiz, and Karachaganak, with the Kazakh side emphasizing the importance of attracting American investments and technologies to these ventures.

The parties also explored opportunities in the framework of the strategic energy dialogue for collaboration in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, developing renewable energy sources, advancing civil nuclear energy, and extracting critical materials. "Kazakhstan expressed interest in U.S. best practices in development and operation of small modular reactors," the statement said.

Special attention was given to the diversification of transportation routes for Kazakh oil. Satkaliyev highlighted the significance of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) and expressed hope for U.S. support in its further development.

The ministers also addressed the impact of sanctions on the stability of Kazakh oil supplies to global markets.

"Kazakhstan and the United States are strategic partners in the energy sector. We highly value our cooperation and see great potential for its further expansion, including in green energy and new technologies. I am confident that, through joint efforts, we can contribute to global energy security and sustainable development," Satkaliyev is quoted as saying.

TITR is an international transport corridor that runs through China, Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia to Turkey and Europe.