The new phase of China-Russian relationships is entered. This means that pipeline gas system is undergoing major changes. As all roads lead to Rome, all Russia’s main pipelines lead to European countries. However, with the wind of change blowing, Russia has to reshape its oil politics. The two leading powers announced they are ready to conclude a landmark agreement on construction of a new gas pipeline to China. Now China prepares to welcome Russia’s Vladimir Putin in May. Among other things, the meeting between Gazprom and China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) is on the agenda. The parties are set to sign a “Holy Grail” contract on Russian gas delivery to China. The preliminary preparation takes too much time, but there is a breakthrough in talks. Both China and Russia have a mutual interest in this project. "The current talks suggest that the companies' positions are drawing nearer, progress is apparent, so the signing of a contract during the Russian president's visit to China is quite likely," the Chinese embassy's plenipotentiary minister and counselor for economic affairs, Zhang Di. But he noted that, "as in the past, the price remains unsettled, which may become the main hurdle." Anyway, this core issue seems to be resolved as well. Strategic partnership with China is important for Russia now. The two sides are back at the negotiating table. "We are in talks with Chinese partners, we have determined a price formula and volumes and can possibly reach an agreement with China in the next two months," Gazprom Deputy confirms. The contract is expected to be finalized in May 2014. Both parties sought common ground on this deal.
