Russia wants larger energy conversation free of politics: Minister

Russian Energy Minister Nikolay Shulginov on Tuesday called upon other countries to expand the de-politicized energy dialogue at the third meeting of energy ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member-states.

"A broad, de-politicized dialogue among countries is needed to shape a common energy future," Shulginov said, as cited by the Energy Ministry.

"Expansion of cooperation in the SCO space is a strategic task outside of a market context. We are working on its implementation both in the eastern and western directions," the Minister said.


SCO member-states have created a range of major energy projects in Eurasia, including the modernization and construction of intertwined energy and transport-logistical infrastructure on the continent, Shulginov said.

"Our work must focus on the expansion of new cooperation formats. The strongest energy potential and successful progress in energy cooperation will form the basis for further expansion of interaction across the SCO in other sectors of the economy. The energy sector can act as a driving force in developing related spheres and I am confident we will be able to achieve this by joint efforts," he added.

The SCO energy Ministers meeting held virtually under India’s presidency explored joint fuel projects for connecting emerging fuel producing and consuming countries and also discussed emerging fuel technologies.