中俄合作天然气管道，俄坚持要途经蒙古国，我国为何拒绝投资？

Core Viewpoint - The energy cooperation between China and Russia, particularly in the natural gas sector, has deepened over the years, with both countries having significant interests in expanding their collaboration despite facing challenges in new pipeline projects [1][3]. Group 1: Historical Context and Existing Projects - China and Russia began discussions on natural gas pipelines in the early 2000s to efficiently transport Russian gas to meet China's growing energy demands [1]. - The "Power of Siberia" pipeline, which started operations in 2019, has a capacity of 38 billion cubic meters per year and has been a successful model of energy cooperation between the two nations [4]. Group 2: Challenges in New Pipeline Projects - The proposed "Power of Siberia 2" pipeline, intended to transport 50 billion cubic meters of gas annually, has faced significant obstacles, particularly due to Russia's insistence on routing the pipeline through Mongolia [3][6]. - China's refusal to accept the proposed route through Mongolia stems from concerns over geopolitical security, environmental impact, and increased economic costs associated with a longer pipeline [9][11][12]. Group 3: Economic and Strategic Considerations - Russia's strategic interest in routing the pipeline through Mongolia includes strengthening ties with Mongolia and diversifying its gas export markets, especially in light of reduced demand from the EU [7]. - The ongoing negotiations have been complicated by price disputes, with Russia seeking European market prices while China insists on domestic market rates, leading to a stalemate in discussions [14][16]. Group 4: Future Prospects - As of 2023, negotiations remain unresolved, with China demanding that Russia cover construction costs and maintain lower prices, while Russia may need to consider alternative routes or expand existing pipelines [16][17]. - The potential for Mongolia's involvement in the project appears increasingly unrealistic, and future energy cooperation will depend on resolving these ongoing disputes [17].