An international scientific and practical conference dedicated to the 20th anniversary of Turkmen-Chinese cooperation in the gas sector was held in Ashgabat

On April 17, 2026, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted the international scientific and practical conference “Turkmenistan–People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Partnership in the Gas Sector.”

The event was attended by heads of relevant institutions of both countries, representatives of leading oil and gas companies, as well as international experts.

As noted in the speeches of the Turkmen side, the comprehensive strategy for the development of the country’s fuel and energy complex, initiated by Hero-Arkadag and focused on innovation and diversification, is currently being successfully implemented under the wise leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.

Systematic work is being carried out to modernize industry infrastructure based on advanced technologies and innovative solutions, increase the capacity for hydrocarbon extraction and processing, and expand natural gas export routes.

At present, the strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and the People’s Republic of China is being filled with new content. At the same time, the fuel and energy sector serves as a key area of bilateral cooperation.

The development of the next stage of one of the world’s largest gas fields, “Galkynysh,” as well as the construction of additional branches of the Turkmenistan–China gas pipeline, demonstrates that joint energy projects will continue to serve as a solid foundation for sustainable development and economic stability in the region.

Then, the floor was given to Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and First Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China Ding Xuexiang.

The guest highly appreciated the historical significance of the conference, emphasizing that cooperation between Turkmenistan and China in the gas sector is one of the most illustrative and stable examples of strategic partnership in the modern world.

As noted, energy cooperation between the two countries is not only about trade and economic ties but also a manifestation of mutual trust and respect.

Highlighting the integration of energy development with environmental protection and the “green” economy, Ding Xuexiang confirmed China’s readiness to further exchange experience with Turkmenistan in applying modern low-carbon technologies in natural gas production and transportation.

In conclusion, the First Vice Premier expressed confidence that bilateral energy partnership will continue to develop actively for the benefit of the Turkmen and Chinese peoples.

Chairman of the Board of Directors of the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) Dai Houliang, also delivered a speech, highly appreciating the role and significance of this historic cooperation in the modern global energy system.

During his speech, prospects for further strategic partnership were outlined. He noted that expanding existing capacities and deepening cooperation play an important role in meeting China’s rapidly growing demand for energy resources and ensuring energy stability across the region.

Dai Houliang expressed confidence that the model of cooperation, formed thanks to the political will and foresight of the leaders of the two states, will continue to develop steadily in a new historical era.

Following the high-level plenary session, a signing ceremony took place for an agreement between the State Concern “Turkmengaz” and “CNPC Amudarya Petroleum Company Ltd.” on the design and turnkey construction of facilities for the production of 10 billion cubic meters of commercial gas per year, as well as operational wells to ensure this level of production within the fourth stage of development of the “Galkynysh” gas field.

The conference then continued with thematic sessions.

At the session “Priority Gas Projects of Turkmenistan: Resource Base, Investment Opportunities and Development of Export Infrastructure,” a detailed overview of Turkmenistan’s vast hydrocarbon resource base and its importance in the global market was presented. New investment projects in gas chemistry and processing industries were discussed. Experts also highlighted the role of modern engineering solutions and digital systems in ensuring the safety and stability of energy supply.

The second session, “Training of Personnel and Development of Scientific and Educational Cooperation between Turkmenistan and China,” focused on cooperation in science and education. In the humanitarian aspect, particular attention was given to issues of environmental sustainability.

As part of the international forum, a large-scale exhibition was also organized, showcasing the achievements of Turkmenistan’s gas industry and advanced developments of Chinese partners.