As traditional supply routes face new pressure, Uzbekistan is looking to an unexpected regional partnership for more reliable fuel access.
Uzbekistan is considering with Azerbaijan the possibility of jointly producing automotive and aviation fuel for the domestic market. The parties are also discussing prospects for long-term supplies of crude oil and petroleum products.
This is reported by Radio Azattyq.
Uzbek Energy Minister Sherzod Khodjaev noted that the cooperation could involve the production of fuels and lubricants using oil-refining facilities in both countries. Uzbekistan has already presented the Azerbaijani side with several options for such cooperation.
Joint Processing and New Logistics Routes
Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Energy clarified that the talks cover the joint processing of hydrocarbon feedstock, technology sharing, and the creation of reliable routes for energy deliveries.
The search for new partners is linked to Uzbekistan’s dependence on imported petroleum products. Russia remains one of the country’s key suppliers, but it has faced fuel shortages following Ukrainian drone strikes on oil refineries. Against this backdrop, the Russian authorities imposed restrictions on exports of fuels and lubricants.
Uzbekistan Seeks Alternative Fuel Sources
Due to risks to petroleum product supplies, Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries have intensified their search for alternative sources. The Uzbek side has already arranged purchases of aviation kerosene in Georgia and Iraq.
Uzbekneftegaz has also held talks with Chinese companies on the long-term purchase of Jet A-1 aviation fuel. Cooperation with Azerbaijan could become another avenue for diversifying supplies and strengthening Uzbekistan’s energy security.