Turkmenistan, China Mark 20 Years of Strategic Gas Partnership with Major Energy Agreements
Ashgabat, The Gulf Observer: Turkmenistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry on April 17, 2026 hosted an international scientific and practical conference titled “Turkmenistan–People’s Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Partnership in the Gas Sector,” highlighting the depth and future trajectory of bilateral energy cooperation.
The high-level forum brought together senior officials from both countries, representatives of leading oil and gas companies, and international experts to review progress and outline new areas of collaboration.
In remarks delivered during the opening session, Turkmen officials emphasized that the country’s long-term strategy for developing its fuel and energy sector—initiated by Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and currently being advanced under the leadership of Serdar Berdimuhamedov—is focused on innovation, diversification, and modernization.
Speakers highlighted ongoing efforts to upgrade industrial infrastructure through advanced technologies, expand hydrocarbon extraction and processing capacities, and diversify natural gas export routes. The energy sector was described as a cornerstone of Turkmenistan’s economic policy and a key driver of sustainable development.
The conference underscored the growing strength of Turkmenistan–China relations, with the gas sector identified as a central pillar of the strategic partnership. Major joint initiatives, including the continued development of the giant Galkynysh gas field and the expansion of the Turkmenistan–China gas pipeline network, were cited as evidence of deepening cooperation.
Addressing the forum, Ding Xuexiang, Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China and First Vice Premier of the State Council, described bilateral energy cooperation as one of the most stable and exemplary models of strategic partnership globally.
He stressed that ties between the two countries extend beyond trade and economics, reflecting mutual trust and respect. Ding also highlighted the importance of integrating energy development with environmental sustainability, reaffirming China’s readiness to expand cooperation with Turkmenistan in low-carbon technologies for gas production and transportation.
Chairman of the Board of Directors of China National Petroleum Corporation, Dai Houliang, also addressed the gathering, praising the long-standing partnership and its significance in the global energy landscape. He emphasized that expanding production capacity and deepening cooperation are essential to meeting China’s growing energy demand and ensuring regional energy security.
A key highlight of the event was the signing of an agreement between the State Concern “Turkmengaz” and “CNPC Amudarya Petroleum Company Ltd.” for the design and turnkey construction of facilities capable of producing 10 billion cubic meters of commercial gas annually. The project forms part of the fourth stage of development of the Galkynysh gas field and includes the drilling of operational wells to sustain production levels.
The conference continued with thematic sessions focusing on priority gas projects, investment opportunities, and export infrastructure development, as well as scientific, educational, and environmental cooperation between the two countries.
An accompanying exhibition showcased Turkmenistan’s achievements in the gas sector alongside advanced technological solutions presented by Chinese partners.
The forum concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening strategic energy cooperation, positioning it as a key pillar for long-term economic growth and regional stability.
