22.02.2026
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, National Leader of Turkmenistan and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty (Parliament), stated on February 22 that the Trans-Caspian gas pipeline is one of the key directions for strengthening energy security on the continent and diversifying energy flows. He made this statement in an interview with Al Arabiya television during his visit to the United States.
According to Berdimuhamedov, Turkmenistan maintains a consistent and constructive approach to the project. At the same time, he emphasized the importance of resolving international legal issues such as the delimitation of the Caspian Sea seabed. A Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan working group has been established in this regard, and practical results are expected from its work.
The interview also paid special attention to the country’s energy strategy. Turkmenistan ranks fourth in the world in proven natural gas reserves and pursues a policy of diversifying export supplies while taking into account the interests of producer, transit, and consumer countries.
Turkmenistan is currently implementing the major international project “Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India” (TAPI) gas pipeline. Construction of the first phase of the project known as “Arkadagyň ak ýoly” is ongoing in Afghanistan. The project enjoys international support and is considered an important factor in meeting the energy needs of South Asian countries and accessing new markets.
Berdimuhamedov recalled that in the past the main volume of Turkmen gas — up to 40 billion cubic meters per year — was supplied to Russia. At present, China is the largest consumer. In addition, under the diversification policy, gas exports are carried out to Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and other countries through a “swap” scheme.
The Trans-Caspian gas pipeline is an international infrastructure project intended to transport gas from Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan across the seabed of the Caspian Sea. It is designed to connect to the Southern Gas Corridor systems and reach European markets.
