Kazakhstani Envoy to Baku: Keep Pipe Dreaming

Kazakhstan’s ambassador to Azerbaijan, Serik Primbetov, wants to let oilmen everywhere know that it’s okay to dream. Despite formidable obstacles standing in the way of construction, Primbetov recently talked up the chances of building a trans-Caspian tube in the not too distant future.

Speaking on August 30 in Baku, marking the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the ratification of Kazakhstan’s constitution, Primbetov said the development of Kazakhstan’s massive energy field in Kashagan, which is projected to become operational in late 2012/early 2013, will pipeline prospects a boost.

Even if Kazakhstan commits large amounts Kashagan energy to the trans-Caspian route, there are plenty of hurdles to clear before the pipeline can start operating. Both Russia and Iran are not fans, mainly because a trans-Caspian route would bypass both countries. The inability of littoral states to agree on a Caspian Sea treaty gives Moscow and Tehran plenty of leeway to make mischief.