Preparations are underway for the 31st International Conference and Exhibition "Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan – 2026" (OGT 2026). The large-scale forum will be held in Ashgabat from October 21 to 23 under the motto "Energy. Cooperation. Development." According to the organizers, world-renowned journalist, economic analyst, and moderator Jon Defterios will serve as the chief international moderator of this prestigious industry forum. The appointment of Jon Defterios coincides with the preparatory stage of the forum. Currently, over 150 delegates from various countries around the world have confirmed their participation, exhibition spaces are fully booked, and the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) has joined the ranks of the Main Partners of the "OGT 2026" event. Jon Defterios is one of the most authoritative international journalists in the fields of global economy, energy, international trade, and geopolitics. For many years, he worked as the chief emerging markets editor and anchor for CNN Business. Throughout his career, he has conducted numerous interviews with heads of state, government leaders, ministers, and heads of major international companies. Currently, Jon Defterios serves as a professor of business at New York University Abu Dhabi and a strategic advisor for the international consulting firm APCO Worldwide. The participation of the renowned expert will further strengthen the international standing of the forum and positively contribute to ensuring a high professional level of discussions at the conference. Confirming his participation in the Ashgabat meeting, Jon Defterios emphasized that Turkmenistan holds a crucial strategic position in the regional and global energy system, relying on a vast resource base and cooperation with leading companies.