Construction of stage one of this project, which is China's first international pipeline project, was completed in 2005. A second stage, which would link the pipeline to Kazakhstan's Caspian reserves, is scheduled for completion in 2008. The project allows Kazakhstan an alternative export route for its energy resources and improved access to the growing Chinese market; it also supports the Chinese priority to diversify sources of oil supply.

The presentation was part of an initiative from the Group to promote transparency on new infrastructure projects across the Energy Charter constituency.