An International Scientific and Practical Conference entitled ‘Turkmenistan–People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Partnership in the Gas Sector’ was held at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Ashgabat. Participants discussed the development of energy cooperation and the prospects for joint projects. This was reported by TDH.

The forum was attended by heads of relevant departments, representatives of oil and gas companies, and international experts. The main focus was on the development of the fuel and energy sector. It was noted that cooperation in the gas sector remains a key area of interaction between Turkmenistan and China.

Participants emphasised the importance of the ‘Turkmenistan–China’ gas pipeline and projects at the ‘Galkynysh’ field. Plans for further development of the field and increased gas supplies were discussed.

Ding Xuexiang, First Vice-Chairman of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, stated that Turkmenistan remains one of the main suppliers of gas to China. He also noted a readiness to expand cooperation, including the introduction of low-carbon technologies.

Dai Houliang, Chairman of the Board of Directors of CNPC, outlined prospects for increasing capacity and the further development of energy projects.

Following the plenary session, the State Concern ‘Türkmengaz’ and ‘CNPC Amudarya Petroleum Company Ltd.’ signed an Agreement on the construction of facilities to produce 10 billion cubic metres of gas per year as part of the fourth phase of the ‘Galkynysh’ field development.

The conference continued with thematic sessions. Participants discussed the resource base, investment projects and the development of export infrastructure. Projects in gas chemistry and processing were considered separately, as was the construction of the ‘Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India’ gas pipeline.

The second session focused on cooperation in science and education, including staff training and the implementation of environmental standards within the industry. At the conclusion of the forum, it was noted that the accumulated experience of cooperation provides a foundation for the further development of partnerships in the gas sector.