National Leader of the Turkmen People Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov on Wednesday hailed the energy cooperation between Turkmenistan and China, calling the natural gas pipeline project a "shining example" of alignment with the interests of both countries and a shared commitment to energy security and stability across Asia.
Berdimuhamedov, also chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, was interviewed by China Media Group (CMG) during a three-day goodwill visit to China that began on Tuesday.
With energy cooperation long regarded as a top priority and a model of bilateral collaboration in Turkmenistan-China relations, Berdimuhamedov outlined the latest developments and future potential during the interview.
"The energy sector is a central focus of the Turkmenistan-China strategic partnership. There is no doubt that our two countries possess a rare and immense potential in this field. As is well known, in April 2006, the two governments signed a general agreement on the construction of the Turkmenistan-China natural gas pipeline and the sales of Turkmen gas to China. On Dec 14, 2009, the natural gas pipeline was successfully completed and put into operation. The natural gas cooperation strategy fully aligns with the long-term interests of both Turkmenistan and China, while also meeting the demands of global economic development," Berdimuhamedov said.
"In this process, the strategic value of cross-border energy transit has become increasingly prominent. It clearly demonstrates that we are building a truly strategic partnership based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit, shared potential, and co-created prospects. At its core, the natural gas pipeline stands as a shining example of international cooperation, illustrating how the interests of all project participants -- producer countries, transit countries, and consumer countries -- can be balanced," he said.
Meanwhile, Berdimuhamedov said that, given their highly aligned stance on energy security, Turkmenistan and China will continue to deepen cooperation to serve the fundamental interests of both countries and maintain energy security and stability across Asia.
"I would also like to emphasize that Turkmenistan and China share a highly consistent stance on the critical issue of ensuring the reliability and security of raw material supply in global energy markets. This shows that a stable, reliable, and long-term-oriented energy supply system for China is being steadily, continuously, and resolutely built through our joint efforts. It is important to emphasize that Chinese partners, who have actively participated in the development of Turkmen gas fields for many years, have always worked diligently with a strong sense of responsibility. Their sincerity and professionalism are widely recognized. The work of Chinese experts in Turkmenistan will continue to deepen and expand, fully aligning with the fundamental interests of both countries and supporting the shared goal of maintaining energy security and stability across the Asian continent," he said.
Turkmen national leader speaks highly of China-Turkmenistan energy cooperation
