Russia and China have made general progress on the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline project, including agreement on its key parameters and construction route. However, a specific implementation roadmap remains elusive, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov today, following President Vladimir Putin's visit to Beijing.

Peskov confirmed that while the route and construction methods have been agreed upon, and a general understanding established, some details still need to be finalized. He emphasized that a concrete timeline for implementing this mega gas pipeline project is not yet in place.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands during a signing ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on 20/5. *AP*

The two nations have been negotiating for years on this pipeline, which would run from Russia's natural gas heartland in northern Siberia to China via Mongolian territory. Despite extensive talks, they have yet to agree on gas prices and other critical issues, preventing the project's advancement.

Currently, the Power of Siberia pipeline is the only gas conduit from Russia to China, transporting over 38 billion cubic meters of gas annually from eastern Siberia. The planned Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, expected to be 2,600 km long, aims to transport 50 billion cubic meters of gas annually to China.

During his visit to China in September last year, President Putin indicated that gas prices on the new system would be based on a market formula, similar to that applied to Russian shipments to Europe. However, China has not yet agreed to this formula.

The Power of Siberia 2 project holds particular importance for Russia. This is especially true as most European customers have "severed ties" with Russian gas due to the campaign in Ukraine, prompting Moscow to seek alternative markets.

President Putin arrived in Beijing on 19/5, commencing a two-day visit to China focused on talks with President Xi Jinping. This marks Putin's second meeting with Xi within one year, following the Russian leader's four-day trip in late 8/2025.

The Power of Siberia and Power of Siberia 2 (planned) pipeline systems transport gas from Russia to China. *Table*

The meeting took place amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Iran conflict, which has shaken global energy markets. These issues are believed to be driving Russia and China closer in pursuit of common interests.

After years of Western pressure, Moscow has increasingly fostered ties with Beijing in trade, technology, and energy. Meanwhile, China considers Russia a vital strategic partner to ensure energy security and enhance its international influence.

Vu Hoang (According to Reuters, AFP, AP)