EGF Gazprom Monitor, Issue 78, November 2017

A Snapshot of Key Developments in the External Relations of the Russian Gas Sector

By Dr Jack Sharples, EGF Associate Researcher on the External Dimensions of Russian Gas and Lecturer in Energy Politics at the European University of St Petersburg

Key points:

• Gazprom and the EU:
  • Gazprom on the European market:  Gazprom"s strong exports to Europe continue; European Commission proposes update to Third Gas Directive
• Nord Stream: US State Department issues guidance on sanctions affecting Nord Stream 2; Gazprom expects EUGAL pipeline construction to begin in mid-2018, once construction permits have been received
• Southern Corridor: Gazprom CEO points to increased Turkish gas imports from Russia as proof of the need for Turkish Stream
• Ukraine: Gazprom challenges arbitration award of 31st of May, final rulings in arbitration cases relating to gas supply and gas transit are pushed back; Ukrainian government prepared to "unbundle" Naftogaz, aims for increased domestic gas production
• Asia: Gazprom pushes back final completion of Power of Siberia from 2022 to 2024, but still aims for launch of gas supplies to China in December 2019
• Other:  Gazprom to resume gas exports to Azerbaijan; Gazprom and National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) sign MoU to cooperate on Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline