An Outside View: Why Turkmenistan Has Never Been Isolated
Frederick Starr is a leading figure in American expertise on Russia and Eurasia, the founder of the Central Asia-Caucasus Institute. His opinion carries weight. At the Avaza Investment Forum, he shared his perspective on Turkmenistan and dispelled one of the most widespread myths.
Professor Stephen Frederick Starr, speaking at the forum, immediately got to the point. He greeted everyone on screen and expressed regret that he was unable to attend in person. Then, bypassing the usual diplomatic language, he presented his main idea.
Debunking the Isolation Myth
Many abroad believed that Turkmenistan's neutrality equated to isolation. Frederick Starr categorically disagrees. Yes, Ashgabat has always been cautious in its relations with the outside world, unwilling to lean on any one side. But behind this caution, he says, has always lurked an active and thoughtful policy.
The professor recalled that it was Turkmenistan that proposed the gas pipeline to China.
"The initiative didn't come from Beijing—it originated in Ashgabat. And this happened precisely at the time when we were being told that Turkmenistan was supposedly isolated. No, that wasn't true," Starr emphasized. He cited the Central Asian countries' initiative to establish a nuclear-free zone as another example of Turkmenistan's involvement. Turkmenistan was among the leaders of this initiative, which in no way jibes with the notion of isolation.
A Call to Action: Transportation and Beyond
Frederick Starr urged investors to look beyond traditional oil and gas projects. He highlighted two areas:
• Transportation. This refers to the full spectrum of connections—east, west, north, and south. He highlighted the long-standing TAPI gas pipeline project, which, in his view, is long overdue for implementation.
• Agriculture. The professor urged attention to highly developed agricultural regions, especially in the north of the country, where there are enormous opportunities for expansion.
The Future in Faces
In conclusion, Frederick Starr addressed the most important issue: people. He noted that a new generation is growing up in Turkmenistan, ready for cooperation. These young people are learning foreign languages and traveling like never before.
The professor expressed confidence that foreign investors will find them worthy partners and urged active engagement. He also suggested learning the Turkmen language to strengthen business ties.
