Kazakhstan ready to consider gas export route via Russia to Italy

ASTANA. April 29 (Interfax) - Kazakhstan is ready to consider a possible gas export route through Russia and European countries to Italy, Deputy Energy Minister Kairkhan Tutkyshbayev told Interfax.

"Kazakhstan does not have a direct gas transportation route with Italy. As a possible option, transit routes through Russia and European countries could be considered," Tutkyshbaev said.

He said no negotiations were currently under way on pipeline gas supplies from Kazakhstan to Italy or other European countries.

He added that there is no information on European countries' demand for possible gas supplies from Kazakhstan.

"So, we do not consider it appropriate to discuss gas exports in this direction," the deputy minister said.

Earlier, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said it is too early to discuss returning to Russian gas supplies despite challenges in global energy markets.

A phased ban on Russian gas imports to the European Union took effect on March 18. A full ban on LNG imports from Russia is set to take effect in early 2027, while a full ban on pipeline gas imports is scheduled for September 30, 2027.

Italy has faced heightened energy supply risks amid disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz. As a result, Meloni travelled to Algeria to negotiate higher gas supplies.

In April, Eni Chief Executive Claudio Descalzi said the EU should reconsider the plans for a gradual ban on Russian gas imports starting in 2027.