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«Central Asian Gas Ring» will expand routes for Turkmen gas supplies
21.10.2026The “Central Asia Gas Ring” project could open an additional route for Turkmen gas supplies to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan and, with the necessary pipeline interconnections in place, to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Existing export commitments would remain unchanged. Valérie Ducro, Executive Director of the Global Gas Centre (GGC) in Geneva, made the statement at the 31st International Conference and Exhibition “Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan – OGT 2026,” according to the news website Turkmenportal. Ducro described the project as an example of moving from statements to practical action. She noted that, at the latest Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, the President of Turkmenistan highlighted opportunities for cooperation in developing pipeline infrastructure and electricity supplies. Particular attention was given to strengthening long-term energy ties amid volatility in global markets. According to Ducro, Turkmenistan’s proven natural gas reserves range from 11 trillion to more than 13 trillion cubic metres, placing the country among the world’s top five in terms of gas reserves. Turkmenistan exports more than 30 billion cubic metres of gas to China annually. The Central Asia–China gas pipeline system has an annual capacity of 55 billion cubic metres. A planned additional pipeline line to China would increase capacity by a further 30 billion cubic metres per year. Ducro also highlighted growing gas demand in countries south and east of Turkmenistan. India plans to increase the share of natural gas in its energy mix from approximately 6% to 15% by 2030, while Pakistan has a population of around 240 million. Among the key priorities, Ducro identified the development of interconnections between gas networks, the creation of favourable conditions for investment and the diversification of export routes. She also stressed the need to reduce methane emissions throughout the gas supply chain. The Global Gas Centre is ready to provide a neutral platform for dialogue among market participants.
Maksat Babayev spoke about the development of Turkmenistan's gas industry
21.10.2026State Minister of Turkmenistan and Chairman of the State Concern Turkmengas Maksat Babayev spoke about the development of the gas industry and the implementation of international projects at the plenary session of the 31st International Conference and Exhibition “Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan — OGT 2026” on October 21. This was reported by the Turkmenportal news website. The development of the Galkynysh field remains a key priority. According to Gaffney, Cline & Associates, the field’s reserves, together with those of the Garaköl and Yashlar structures, amount to 27.4 trillion cubic metres of natural gas. The fourth phase of development includes drilling wells and constructing a gas treatment plant with an annual capacity of 10 billion cubic metres. The China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) is the project partner. The project is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs. China remains the largest importer of Turkmen natural gas. Since December 2009, more than 477 billion cubic metres of gas have been delivered through the Turkmenistan–China gas pipeline. Construction of the Afghan section of the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline, running from Serhetabat to Herat, is ongoing. Gas supplies through this section are scheduled to begin in 2027. In August, Turkmengas and the Afghan state-owned company Afghan Gas signed a memorandum of cooperation covering, among other areas, gas supplies to Herat Province. Maksat Babayev emphasised that Turkmenistan is diversifying its export routes and expanding cooperation with international partners. Turkmengas’s priorities include introducing digital technologies, reducing methane emissions, training national specialists and transferring technological expertise.
Malaysia is ready to expand cooperation with Turkmenistan in the oil and gas sector
21.10.2026Malaysia’s Minister of Economy Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the country is ready to expand long-term cooperation with Turkmenistan in the oil and gas sector. He made the remarks on October 21 at the opening plenary session of the Turkmenistan International Oil and Gas Exhibition and Conference (OGT 2026) in Ashgabat. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The Malaysian minister noted that cooperation between the two countries has continued for more than 30 years. PETRONAS, which has been operating in Turkmenistan since 1996, has contributed to the development of hydrocarbon resources, infrastructure and professional training. In June 2026, a Malaysian delegation visited Turkmenistan to mark the 30th anniversary of PETRONAS’s operations in the country. Following talks between the Malaysian Prime Minister and President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, with a particular focus on the oil and gas industry. During the visit, Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir and Guvanch Agajanov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, signed a framework agreement on long-term cooperation in the development of Turkmenistan’s hydrocarbon resources. Malaysia is represented at OGT 2026 by more than 15 companies specialising in oil and gas services and equipment. Seven of them are exhibiting in the national pavilion organised with the support of the Malaysia Petroleum Resources Corporation (MPRC). The minister invited Turkmen companies, government agencies and investors to visit the pavilion and explore its exhibits. Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir emphasised that the development of new fields requires advanced engineering solutions, project management, offshore operations and specialised technical services. Malaysian companies are ready to share their expertise in the design and construction of facilities, equipment maintenance, drilling, digitalisation, industrial safety, workforce training and the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies. The minister also highlighted the importance of creating jobs for Turkmenistan’s citizens, engaging local suppliers, transferring technology and developing national expertise. According to the minister, Malaysia is ready to support these efforts through investment, professional training and the development of local supply chains. The opening ceremony of OGT 2026 was also attended by Maksat Babayev, State Minister and Chairman of the State Concern Turkmengas, along with other officials. The exhibition and conference are being held in Ashgabat under the theme “Energy. Partnership. Progress.”
Turkmenistan’s Deputy Prime Minister attends SCO Council of heads of government meeting
21.10.2026Turkmenistan’s Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers H. Geldimyradov took part in the expanded meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states in Dushanbe on October 20, 2026. Turkmenistan attended the meeting as an invited state, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reported. Participants discussed regional cooperation and prospects for collaboration in trade, the economy, transport and logistics, and energy. Particular attention was paid to developing economic ties, strengthening transport connectivity, and implementing joint initiatives.
The book by the head of Turkmenistan on neutrality was presented in the Azerbaijani language
21.10.2026The Azerbaijani translation of the book Turkmenistan’s Neutrality – A Bright Path to Peace and Trust by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov was presented at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, as well as the institute’s faculty and students. Thıs was reported by the International Information Center of Turkmenistan. The book explores the historical origins and legal foundations of Turkmenistan’s neutrality, as well as the country’s foreign policy and diplomacy. The publication marks the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality. The presentation coincided with the international art exhibition Mother Nature, organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation with the support of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. The book was previously published in Turkmen, Russian and English. Work is ongoing to translate it into other languages.
A lecturer from Turkmenistan is participating in a scientific program in Japan
21.10.2026A lecturer from Turkmenistan is taking part in the 9th International School on Beam Dynamics and Accelerator Technology (ISBA 2026). Nurjemal Bayramova, a lecturer in the Department of Cyber-Physical Systems at Oguz Khan Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan, is attending the programme, which runs from October 19 to 28 at Hiroshima University in Japan, according to the information agency ''Turkmenistan: Golden Age''. The programme brings together specialists from different countries and aims to promote scientific and educational cooperation, enhance lecturers’ professional skills and facilitate the exchange of expertise in advanced technologies. Participants study the theoretical foundations of beam dynamics, recent advances in accelerator technology and the operating principles of accelerator systems. Classes are led by professors from Hiroshima University. The cultural programme includes tours of Hiroshima’s historical sites and landmarks, offering participants an opportunity to learn about the city’s history and local traditions. Nurjemal Bayramova’s participation contributes to strengthening scientific and educational ties between Turkmenistan and Japan. The knowledge and experience gained during the programme may be applied in the university’s teaching and research activities.
Employees of the Academy of Public Administration of Turkmenistan are mastering new management methods
21.10.2026Employees of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of Turkmenistan are taking online courses on contemporary issues in public administration organized by the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA). This was reported by Turkmenportal. The training is being conducted under a cooperation agreement signed by the two institutions in 2024. The programme covers modern approaches to public administration, financial planning, budget and resource management. A separate module focuses on financial statement analysis. RANEPA instructors are conducting online seminars on public financial management, strategic planning, sustainable socio-economic development and the digitalization of public services. Participants are also studying the application of artificial intelligence in public administration, labour law, and methods for preventing and resolving workplace conflicts. Other topics include strategic human resource management, emotional intelligence and the development of mentoring programmes. In addition to theoretical sessions, participants complete practical assignments and analyse case studies related to the course topics. This helps them consolidate their knowledge and develop skills in analysing management situations. Upon completion of the programme, participants will receive certificates of advanced professional training. The course aims to strengthen the professional competencies of specialists in public administration.
The Turkmen University of Oil and Gas will continue cooperation with PETRONAS
21.10.2026Yagshygeldi Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas, PETRONAS Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn Bhd, and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS have extended their cooperation agreement for another five years. The renewed memorandum provides for the development of joint educational and research projects, according to the press service of Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Education. As part of the partnership, students and young lecturers from the Turkmen university participate in annual summer internships at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS in Malaysia. Faculty members from the Malaysian university also deliver classes covering various fields of study. From October 19 to 22, 2026, a professor from Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS will deliver an online course titled “Energy Systems Analysis” for students and young lecturers from the Faculty of Energy and Engineering Structures. Participants will explore modern technologies and methods used in the energy sector. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive certificates issued by the Malaysian university. Additional classes led by PETRONAS professors are planned for the 2026–2027 academic year. The sessions will be held both online and in person at Yagshygeldi Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas. The programme will cover the oil and gas industry, the application of artificial intelligence, chemistry, and processing technologies. Participants will learn about modern technological solutions and approaches to implementing them in these fields.
The OGT 2026 exhibition and conference have opened in Ashgabat
21.10.2026The International Exhibition and the 31st Turkmenistan Oil and Gas Conference (OGT 2026) have opened at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. Held under the theme “Energy. Partnership. Progress,” the forum runs until October 23 and has brought together around 1,700 delegates from 75 countries, representing more than 450 companies and international organizations, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. The exhibition focuses on the development of new fields, deep processing of hydrocarbons, infrastructure modernization, and the adoption of innovative technologies in the oil and gas sector. Participants and sponsors include SOCAR, Dragon Oil, CNPC, PETRONAS, SLB, Petrofac, Sinopec, and Baker Hughes. One of the exhibition’s technological highlights is the Unitree G1 humanoid robot, named A.L.I. (Artificial Learning Intelligence), which demonstrates the potential applications of artificial intelligence and robotics in industry. The business program features thematic sessions, presentations, and negotiations. Participants are discussing Turkmenistan’s investment projects, international energy transportation routes, environmental modernization of the sector, and measures to reduce methane emissions. The organizers expect the forum to help secure new contracts, expand international partnerships, and attract advanced technologies to Turkmenistan’s fuel and energy sector.
Leyla Aliyeva highlights Turkmenistan’s contribution to addressing environmental challenges
21.10.2026Leyla Aliyeva, Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation of the Republic of Azerbaijan, highlighted Turkmenistan’s contribution to addressing global environmental challenges, including preserving ecological balance, combating desertification, and developing forest areas. Aliyeva made the remarks on October 20 at the opening of the Mother Nature international art exhibition in Ashgabat, according to the TDH news agency. During her speech, Leyla Aliyeva thanked the Turkmen side for its support in organizing the Mother Nature exhibition. According to the Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the exhibition will create new opportunities for international cooperation on pressing environmental issues and the implementation of joint projects. Leyla Aliyeva also expressed confidence that joint efforts would help foster environmental awareness among young people and promote international initiatives in this field.
Oguljahan Atabayeva highlighted the importance of environmental education for young people
21.10.2026On October 20, Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice President for Medical Affairs of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, spoke at the opening of the international art exhibition «Mother Nature» in Ashgabat. The exhibition was organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation of the Republic of Azerbaijan with the support of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation, TDH reports. In her speech, Oguljahan Atabayeva emphasized the importance of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, environmental protection, and environmental education for young people. She noted that the exhibition aims to raise public awareness of nature conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. Oguljahan Atabayeva highlighted Turkmenistan’s commitment to environmental protection and its initiatives within the United Nations aimed at safeguarding the environment, mitigating the effects of climate change, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The Vice President also underscored the importance of environmental education for younger generations. Oguljahan Atabayeva stressed the need to instill in children a respectful attitude toward nature, an understanding of the value of natural resources, and a willingness to participate actively in environmental protection efforts. According to Oguljahan Atabayeva, children’s health and all-round development are closely linked to the state of the environment. Families, educational institutions, and the wider community all play an important role in fostering environmental awareness. The Vice President further noted that art helps strengthen mutual understanding among peoples, bring cultures closer together, and promote universal human values. In this regard, the Mother Nature exhibition serves as a platform for cultural exchange and raising awareness of environmental issues. Oguljahan Atabayeva invited Ashgabat residents and visitors to attend the exhibition, which will run until November 30. She noted that the artworks, spanning various genres, could inspire new perspectives on environmental protection and creative approaches to addressing environmental challenges.
Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan are developing humanitarian cooperation
21.10.2026A trilateral meeting was held on October 20 at the Oguzkent Hotel, bringing together Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice President for Medical Affairs of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship; Leyla Aliyeva, Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation of the Republic of Azerbaijan; and Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This was reported by the TDH state news agency. The participants discussed the development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, environmental initiatives, and joint projects. Oguljahan Atabayeva highlighted the fraternal and good-neighborly relations between the countries, emphasizing their shared historical roots, languages, and cultural values. Particular attention was given to environmental protection, including Turkmenistan’s National Forest Programme, under which large-scale tree-planting campaigns are held every spring and autumn. The Vice President of the Charitable Foundation also stressed the importance of initiatives to establish a Regional Centre for Climate Change Technologies and a Regional Centre for Combating Desertification in Central Asia. Efforts to improve environmental awareness among young people were also highlighted. Leyla Aliyeva thanked the Turkmen side for its hospitality and the organization of the events. The Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation praised the work of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation and Turkmenistan’s environmental initiatives. Leyla Aliyeva also noted the potential for exchanging experience and implementing joint environmental projects. In turn, the Head of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Uzbekistan highlighted the development of cultural and humanitarian ties between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan and emphasized the importance of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation. Saida Mirziyoyeva also underscored the role of large-scale tree-planting campaigns in protecting the environment and fostering environmental responsibility among young people. The participants emphasized the potential of the Mother Nature international art exhibition to strengthen cultural ties and expand cooperation in environmental protection. Following the meeting, the participants proceeded to the State Academy of Arts of Turkmenistan.
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