Mohsen Paknejad, Iran’s Deputy Minister of Petroleum, met with Rashid Meredov, Turkmenistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, on Tuesday (February 11), emphasizing the importance of strengthening economic relations between the two nations. He stated, “I hope we can establish a productive collaboration.” Paknejad reiterated that in Iran’s foreign policy, fostering constructive engagement with neighboring countries, particularly Turkmenistan—a friendly and brotherly nation—holds great significance.
Economic Relations Expansion Under Iran’s 14th Government
Paknejad highlighted that under the administration of Massoud Pezeshkian, economic relations—especially in the oil and gas sector—have become a priority. He mentioned that this matter was underscored in recent discussions between the Iranian president and Turkmenistan’s national leader during the Iranian president’s visit to Ashgabat in the summer, as well as in a recent phone call between the two high-ranking officials. Both countries are leveraging their shared capacities to enhance bilateral cooperation and strengthen economic ties.
Iran: Turkmenistan’s Second-Largest Gas Partner Since Independence
During the meeting, Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov stated that Iran and Turkmenistan have always maintained friendly relations, which have taken on a new dynamic in recent years, leading to increased bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
Meredov emphasized that one of the most crucial areas of cooperation between the two nations is the oil and gas industry, with Iran being Turkmenistan’s second-largest gas partner since its independence. He referenced the recent phone conversation between Turkmenistan’s national leader and Iran’s president, where strategic issues related to expanding bilateral cooperation—including collaboration in electricity, gas, transportation, and other economic sectors—were discussed. He underscored the importance of such discussions in deepening the two countries’ relations.
History of Iran-Turkmenistan Gas Cooperation
Iran and Turkmenistan’s gas cooperation dates back to the 1990s, during which Turkmenistan has exported approximately 107 billion cubic meters of gas to Iran. This figure reflects the depth of economic ties between the two nations in the energy sector.
Over the years, the two countries have had a successful track record in this field and are now planning to enhance their collaboration in gas export and transportation.
Future Outlook for Oil and Gas Cooperation
Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister reiterated that both countries have had fruitful experiences in gas cooperation, providing a solid foundation for expanding partnerships in the sector. He noted that discussions with Iran’s Ministry of Petroleum have been positive and constructive, with Turkmenistan committed to sustaining and strengthening these collaborations.
Other key areas of discussion included joint projects in transportation and energy. Given the strategic locations of Iran and Turkmenistan, both nations can play a significant role in regional energy supply. These new collaborations could boost trade volume and contribute to the economic growth of both countries.
Conclusion
The expansion of oil and gas cooperation between Iran and Turkmenistan not only addresses their domestic energy needs but also creates new economic opportunities at both regional and international levels. Given the available capacities, it is expected that these partnerships will grow in the near future, further deepening economic and political relations between the two nations.
