Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and Akhund Strengthen Turkmen-Afghan Cooperation
Ashgabat, The Gulf Observer: On Wednesday, at the “Islim–Çeşme” border point in Serhetabat, Takhtabazar district, Mary region, Turkmenistan’s National Leader and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, met with the Acting Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Afghanistan, Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund. This high-level meeting underscored the deepening cooperation between Turkmenistan and Afghanistan, rooted in centuries of good neighborly traditions.
Mullah Akhund expressed his sincere gratitude for the warm reception, highlighting the significance of the day’s historic events in bolstering bilateral ties. He emphasized the vital role Turkmenistan plays in supporting Afghanistan, both politically and economically, and conveyed deep appreciation to Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov for their unwavering assistance to Afghanistan during critical times.
The meeting heralded the launch of several key infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and development. These projects included the opening of a new railway bridge at the Serhetabat–Turgundi crossing, the commencement of the Serhetabat–Herat gas pipeline, and the Serhetabat–Herat fiber-optic communication line, part of the broader “Arkadagyň ak ýoly” initiative. Additionally, other significant undertakings such as the Turgundi–Sanabar railway construction, the commissioning of the “Nur-el-Jahad” power plant in Herat, and the storage complex at the dry port of Turgundi were praised for their historic importance in improving Afghanistan’s infrastructure and trade routes.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov reaffirmed the importance of the meeting, noting that relations between Turkmenistan and Afghanistan are grounded in mutual respect and cooperation. He emphasized that the ongoing joint projects in transportation, communication, and energy sectors reflect the shared commitment of both nations to regional development. Hero-Arkadag particularly highlighted the significance of the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline, the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan (TAP) power transmission lines, and new railroad initiatives, which will not only boost economic prosperity for the two nations but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the region.
In line with its policy of neutrality and “open doors,” Turkmenistan remains steadfast in its commitment to providing economic, political, and diplomatic support to Afghanistan, promoting global peace and fostering mutual cooperation.
The discussions between Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund concluded in an atmosphere of trust, with both leaders exchanging wishes of health and prosperity, affirming the enduring friendship between Turkmenistan and Afghanistan.