The organisers of the 31st International Conference and Exhibition ‘Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan – 2026’ (OGT 2026) have confirmed that international journalist and economic commentator John Defterios will serve as the forum’s lead international moderator. The event will take place in Ashgabat from 21 to 23 October under the motto ‘Energy. Partnership. Progress’, according to the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’.

Preparations for the forum have entered a new phase. More than 150 delegates from various countries have already confirmed their participation in the conference, the exhibition spaces are fully booked, and the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) has joined the ranks of OGT 2026’s Premier Partners.

John Defterios has been covering global economic and energy issues for over 35 years. He has previously worked for ‘CNN Business’, ‘Reuters Television’ and ‘PBS Television’, and has moderated events at the World Economic Forum, ADIPEC, the OPEC International Seminar and other international forums. He is currently a professor of business at New York University Abu Dhabi and a senior strategic adviser to APCO Worldwide.

During OGT 2026, Defterios will lead plenary sessions and strategic discussions involving representatives from government bodies, national and international energy companies, financial institutions and investors.

The forum’s business programme will cover issues relating to the development of the ‘Galkynyş’ field, the advancement of projects in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea, the adoption of modern technologies, the digitalisation of the industry, the application of artificial intelligence, attracting investment, improving energy efficiency and reducing methane emissions.

OGT 2026 is organised by the State-Owned Concerns ‘Türkmengaz’ and ‘Türkmennebit’, and the State Corporation ‘Türkmengeologiýa’, in partnership with the private company ‘Turkmen Energy Forum’.