Ukraine weighs partnership with Kazakhstan in the energy field, says Svyatoslav Tsegolko, Spokesperson for the Ukrainian President. In his words, the country looks to buy coal, oil, and gas from Kazakhstan. Tsegolko is sure that the cooperation of the two countries will be enhanced after Ukraine’s Association Agreement with the European Union comes into effect. President Petro Poroshenko is on a visit to Kazakhstan currently.
Ukraine has to seek new suppliers of coal, as military actions in the east of Ukraine continue. According to data of the Energy Ministry, at least 1 million tons of coal is needed monthly to supply the country with electricity. Kiev in such situation is ready to procure anthracite from Kemerovo, Russia (for 80 USD per ton) and from the Republic of South Africa (for 100 USD per ton). In addition, the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) resumed supply of coal to the territories under control of the Ukrainian forces earlier this month.