Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to discuss the stalled Power of Siberia 2 natural gas pipeline project with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his visit to China this month. The pipeline, meant to connect Russia and China, symbolizes a strategic partnership that could redirect natural gas supply from Europe to north China. Progress on the project is closely watched, given its implications for bilateral relations and potential sanctions from the EU and US. Concerns linger over the project’s uncertain future, with speculations about disagreements over price or China’s need for it.
The project holds significant importance for Putin, but its revival remains unclear. Inside Russia, attention and anxiety surround the project’s status. Chinese silence on the matter persists, with discussions on the pipeline’s construction in a puzzling state. Despite challenges, experts believe that Russia will overcome obstacles to deliver gas to China, albeit at a slower pace than expected due to concerns over Western sanctions.