Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Russian Federation discusses plans to expand export pipelines
Turkmenistan is consistently pursuing a policy of diversifying energy flows and developing its export infrastructure, according to Esen Aydogdyev, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Russian Federation. He made this statement in an article for the magazine "National Defense."
"In its international activities, Turkmenistan places a special emphasis on the geoeconomic aspect of neutrality, in particular, on unlocking the opportunities associated with it to give new meaning to the entire system of international relations in such a crucial component as the supply of energy resources. Turkmenistan's commitment to the principle of diversifying its energy flows, specifically when constructing export pipelines, should also be taken into account. In this context, neutrality serves as an additional and significant condition that guarantees the geographical orientation of Turkmen energy supplies is free from politicization and bloc obligations," the diplomat noted.
According to Aydogdyev, the country's unique resource potential and favorable geographical location are key factors that contribute to the development of regional and interregional economic cooperation. He emphasized that these advantages help maintain a balance of interests in the Eurasian energy space by providing partners with equal access to Turkmen hydrocarbon sources and their delivery methods. "This is a fundamental position," he added.
The Ambassador recalled that Turkmenistan has already completed major infrastructure projects for supplying energy resources to global markets, including the Turkmenistan-China gas pipeline and the second branch of the Turkmenistan-Iran gas pipeline.
"Today, another major energy project is underway—the construction of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline. It enjoys the support of all participating countries and major international financial institutions, including the Asian Development Bank. The TAPI project is a logical continuation of a long-term energy strategy that involves the construction of new international gas pipelines in various directions," Aydogdyev stated.
Turkmenistan is one of the largest players in the Asian oil and gas market. The country's hydrocarbon resources are estimated to exceed 71 billion tons of oil equivalent, which includes more than 20 billion tons of oil and 50 trillion cubic meters of gas. The republic ranks fourth globally in terms of proven natural gas reserves, behind only Russia, Iran, and Qatar. According to TASS, the country's gas production volume reached 77.6 billion cubic meters by the end of 2024.
