俄媒：俄罗斯卖给“中国的天然气”仍有大优惠，可能是七折，便宜30%

Core Points - The signing of a legally binding memorandum marks a significant step forward for the construction of a new natural gas pipeline system through Mongolia, with an annual capacity of 50 billion cubic meters, known as the "Power of Siberia 2" pipeline, which will connect to China [1] - The project is set against a backdrop of changing geopolitical dynamics, with Russia's gas supply to Europe sharply reduced, making China the largest buyer of Russian gas [1][7] - The negotiation process for the "Power of Siberia 2" project has faced challenges, particularly regarding pricing, but a balance has been found that maintains a price discount for China compared to European prices [1][6] Pricing Mechanism - The pricing for Russian gas supplied to China is based on a formula linked to oil prices, with a nine-month lag, ensuring stable and favorable prices for China [4][10] - In Q1 2021, the average price for Russian gas supplied to China was $121 per thousand cubic meters, compared to an overall export average of $171, indicating a discount of approximately 30% [2][4] - This pricing mechanism contrasts sharply with the spot market pricing used for European gas, which has been volatile [4][6] Strategic Importance - The "Power of Siberia 2" project is strategically significant for both Russia and China, as it provides China with a secure energy supply amid rising tensions with the U.S. and potential disruptions to maritime energy routes [8][10] - Russia's need for stable export revenue and a reliable market for its gas has made China a critical partner, enhancing China's negotiating power [6][8] - The project is expected to take 3 to 5 years to complete, with an estimated total investment of 1.5 trillion rubles, and it benefits from existing infrastructure, reducing development time and costs [10][12] Geopolitical Implications - The pipeline is seen as a key factor in reshaping the Eurasian energy landscape and will inject new momentum into the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Russia [12] - As the project progresses, the deepening energy cooperation between the two countries is anticipated to have profound implications for the global energy market [12]