Trans-Caspian Gas Pipeline

But a proposed increase from 1.4 million tons to 2.2 million tons is just a drop in the bucket compared to the volumes Kazakhstan exports via Russia-based pipelines. 

While many issues are beyond Astana’s control, having modern and expanded ports will give the Middle Corridor a fighting chance at success.

The warm welcome in Dushanbe and meetings around the Caspian table in Ashgabat were a chance for Putin to reaffirm his network of partners at a critical moment.

Turkmenistan needs a sale, and Russia probably got a good price.

Successful realization of the opportunities opened by the deal will depend on political will among the Caspian littoral states.

The landmark agreement settles some Caspian Sea issues, but leaves others open for further discussion.

Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan’s aims to diversify their energy export markets got a boost recently.

Turkmenistan’s no closer to seeing its gas reach the European markets it once envisioned.

Pipelines and politics, both foreign and domestic.

Ashgabat aims to quadruple its gas exports to 180bcm annually by 2030.

The pipeline’s history is a telling indicator of changing geopolitical winds.

Moscow’s cruise missile launches demonstrated strength--and weakness--in the Caspian corridor.