ASTANA, Kazakhstan, October 16. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Sanzhar Zharkeshov, Chairman of the Board of QazaqGaz JSC, to discuss the national company's performance for the first nine months of 2024, TurkicWorld reports.
During the meeting, Tokayev received a comprehensive update on major investment projects and the implementation of directives aimed at enhancing Kazakhstan's gas transit potential. Zharkeshov reported that the construction of the second line of the "Almaty – Baiserkent – Talgar" gas pipeline has been successfully completed. He also noted that the gas infrastructure for CHPP-2 and CHPP-3 in Almaty has been established, paving the way for improved energy efficiency in the region.
Zharkeshov announced that work has begun on a new main gas pipeline connecting Taldykorgan and Usharal, alongside preparations to modernize the Central Asia–Center gas pipeline system, which is expected to increase gas transit capabilities to Uzbekistan.
Additionally, the chairman highlighted efforts to expand the resource base in light of the rapid rise in gas consumption within Kazakhstan. To support this, foreign investments have been attracted for geological exploration projects in the gas sector. Notably, a 100-percent carry financing agreement was signed with Chevron for geological exploration in the Aktobe region.
The president was also informed about collaborative initiatives with the ministries of energy and national economy aimed at improving the investment appeal of the gas sector. This includes ensuring adequate tariffs and wholesale gas prices in line with the directives outlined in Tokayev's address.
At the conclusion of the meeting, President Tokayev issued several directives focused on guaranteeing a stable gas supply for both the population and the economy during the heating season. He emphasized the importance of advancing sector reforms and expanding the capacity of the gas transportation system to meet the growing demand.
