Kyrgyzstan agrees oil product supplies with Chinese state company

Kyrgyzstan has secured a significant agreement with the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) for the supply of petroleum products, aiming to bolster its energy security. The agreements were finalized in Urumqi, China, during a working visit by Kyrgyzstan's Deputy Prime Minister Erlist Akunbekov.

The negotiations involved leaders from over ten Kyrgyz companies operating in the petroleum market. Discussions focused on the logistics of supplying fuels and lubricants from China to Kyrgyzstan through CNPC's subsidiary, 'Kunlun Logistics.' Both sides emphasized the importance of streamlining transportation processes. The Kyrgyz Ministry of Energy will coordinate overall efforts, while the Ministry of Transport and Communications, along with the Customs Service, will ensure swift border clearance for oil cargo. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is tasked with simplifying visa procedures for drivers.

Deputy Prime Minister Akunbekov highlighted the importance of direct agreements between Kyrgyz companies and CNPC, especially considering the current dynamics of the Central Asian oil market. CNPC's General Director, Luo Yizhou, expressed readiness to enhance cooperation with Kyrgyzstan, improve customs clearance, and jointly establish a stable energy logistics corridor between China and Kyrgyzstan.

This move comes as Kyrgyzstan, which imports most of its fuel from Russia, faces supply disruptions. President Sadyr Жапаров had previously instructed the Cabinet of Ministers to ensure stable fuel supplies and prevent shortages. The government has been actively seeking alternative suppliers, with initial shipments from China and Belarus arriving in mid-July. Negotiations are also underway with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The agreements with CNPC are expected to broaden import sources and reduce the republic's dependence on a single supplier, ensuring greater stability in its fuel market.

“

Luo Yizhou stated their readiness to develop cooperation with Kyrgyzstan, improve customs clearance for cargo, and jointly create an uninterrupted energy logistics corridor China - Kyrgyzstan.