Tajikistan and Russia are discussing potential cooperation in developing oil and gas fields in Tajikistan. This topic was a key focus during a meeting in Dushanbe between Prime Minister of Tajikistan Kokhir Rasulzoda and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin at the Tajikistan-Russia intergovernmental commission.
"We have provided the Russian side with a list of promising oil and gas fields in Tajikistan for joint development. We propose continuing work to find common ground and move towards implementing a mutually beneficial project in this area," Rasulzoda stated. He added that Tajikistan has taken into account Russia’s concerns about specific requirements and the profitability of launching joint operations in the field.
Khusnullin confirmed Russia's intentions, emphasizing the need to address all planned issues, including the development of existing and new fields. He also highlighted the significant potential for energy cooperation, including integrating into the Central Asian power grid. "Integration into a unified system in Central Asia will enhance the reliability of energy supply," he said, stressing that both countries have a vested interest in this endeavor.
Tajikistan has around 28 registered oil fields with proven reserves exceeding 2 million tons. The country operates 12 oil refineries but produced only about 18,000 tons of oil in 2023, which is insufficient for domestic refining needs. Consequently, Tajikistan imports petroleum products and gas, with Russia being the primary supplier. Russian exports of gasoline and diesel fuel to Tajikistan are delivered on preferential terms, free from customs duties.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Federation Council
Based on TASS materials