Sinopec eyes Kazakh oil and gas projects besides polyethylene - Kazakh Prime Minister

ASTANA. Sept 8 (Interfax) - China's Sinopec is interested in oil and gas projects in Kazakhstan in addition to its current polyethylene project, the government's press service said.

Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov and the President of Sinopec Yu Baocai discussed potential new projects in the oil and gas sector.

Smailov acknowledged Sinopec's significant contribution to major projects in Kazakhstan's energy sector, including the modernization of the Atyrau Oil Refinery. He also emphasized the "strategic importance" of Sinopec's equal partnership in the polyethylene project.

"Energy cooperation between Kazakhstan and China is growing rapidly, contributing significantly to improving the lives of people in both countries," Sinopec's president said.

He also offered to organize a professional internship program for Kazakhstan's oil and gas specialists.

Kazakhstan's KazMunayGas, Russia's SIBUR and Sinopec are currently working together to conduct a feasibility study for a polyethylene production plant. A final investment decision is expected in mid-2024.