Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad has announced that a preliminary agreement has been signed for the import of 55 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas annually (equivalent to 150 million cubic meters per day) from Russia to Iran. He noted that various transfer routes were evaluated, and both sides ultimately agreed on a land-based route through Azerbaijan.
Speaking to reporters on Friday during the 18th Iran-Russia Joint Economic Commission meeting, Paknejad stated that Russian gas will be delivered to Iran in the Astara region, with necessary coordination currently underway between Russia and Azerbaijan. He added that the project includes a second phase, which will be finalized in the future.
In related news, Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev said Friday—following bilateral talks with Iranian officials—that “Russia will begin delivering natural gas to Iran this year, and energy companies are currently negotiating prices. The initial volumes will total 1.8 bcm and will utilize existing infrastructure.”
He added: “Deliveries are expected to begin this year, as soon as a price is agreed upon. Companies are currently negotiating the price. We don’t get involved in commercial relations.”