“QazaqGaz” and “Türkmengaz”: New Opportunities in Gas Cooperation Discussed

Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, which hold a vital place on the Central Asian energy map, aim to further expand their strategic relations in the gas sector. On April 16, 2026, during a high-level international conference held in Ashgabat, Maksat Babayev, Chairman of the State Concern "Türkmengaz," held productive talks with Alibek Zhamauov, Chairman of the Management Board of the Kazakh national company "QazaqGaz." During the meeting, the parties highly appraised the progress of projects currently being implemented. Key focus was directed toward the following areas: - Efficient utilization of the capacity of regional gas pipelines. - Technical and economic opportunities for developing new joint initiatives in the gas sector. - Sharing experience and implementing innovations in the gas industries of both countries. The conference in Ashgabat titled "Turkmenistan — People's Republic of China: 20 Years of Strategic Cooperation in the Gas Sector" served as an important platform not only for bilateral but also for multilateral meetings. During the conference, the head of "QazaqGaz" discussed: - With CNPC (China): the future of gas exports with Dai Houliang, head of the China National Petroleum Corporation; - With SOCAR (Azerbaijan): key issues of inter-sectoral cooperation with Rovshan Najaf, head of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan. Additionally, talks between Turkmen and Azerbaijani officials during the conference drew significant attention. The parties looked into issues beyond natural gas production, including ensuring energy security and taking joint steps toward sustainable (green) energy. This series of meetings demonstrates the increasing role of the Caspian and Central Asian regions in global energy security. The coordinated actions of Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan in the energy sector serve as a guarantee for economic stability and effective international cooperation in the region.