Kazakhstan Energy Ministry studying option of looping Saryarka main line with gas pipeline from Russia

ASTANA. June 28 (Interfax) - Kazakhstan's Energy Ministry is considering the possibility of looping the Saryarka main gas pipeline with a Russian gas pipeline for gasification of the north and east of the country, Minister Almasadam Satkaliyev said.

"The ministry is studying the option of looping the Saryarka gas pipeline with a gas pipeline from the Russian Federation," Satkaliyev said at a meeting with inhabitants of the North Kazakhstan region on Wednesday.

Gazprom is currently developing a pre-feasibility study of the project with a completion date of July this year, he said. "In this regard, after receiving the route of the gas pipeline and gas prices, the best option for gasification of the northern and eastern regions of the country will be determined," the minister said.

As reported, QazaqGaz and Gazprom are negotiating the development of a project for gasification of the north and east of Kazakhstan. A possible new gas pipeline from Russia to China through the territory of Kazakhstan via the route Kustanai - Astana - Pavlodar - Semey - Ust-Kamenogorsk is under consideration.