WNAM MONIORING: The National Leader of Turkmen People, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov delivered a speech Monday inaugurating the next stage of the Serhetabat–Herat segment of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline. The segment, known as “Arkadagyň Ak Ýoly” (Arkadag’s White Road), spans 153 kilometers and is a key part of the transnational energy project.
In his address, Berdimuhamedov emphasized that Turkmenistan is undertaking large-scale measures to increase natural gas production and ensure reliable exports to international markets. He said these projects, implemented by the State Concern Türkmengaz, demonstrate Turkmenistan’s commitment to regional cooperation and economic integration.
Highlighting the strategic significance of TAPI, Berdimuhamedov said the project serves the interests of regional nations, supporting sustainable economic growth. “This next stage of the Serhetabat–Herat segment represents a new step in Turkmenistan’s energy strategy and will give a fresh impetus to the long-term development of the entire region,” he said.
Berdimuhamedov recalled that construction of the Serhetabat–Herat segment began last year on September 11 in Mary province. He described the launch as a milestone in Turkmen-Afghan relations, underscoring the successful collaboration based on goodwill and mutual benefit.
The Turkmen section of the Serhetabat–Herat segment, stretching 214 kilometers, has already been completed. The new stage involves Afghan specialists, creating new jobs and generating annual revenues estimated at over $1 billion for Afghanistan. The project also benefits the wider region by fostering economic stability and cooperation.
The National Leader expressed gratitude to Turkmen gas workers for their dedication to the project, as well as to Afghan authorities for their support. He emphasized that such projects strengthen historical ties between the two peoples and serve as a practical demonstration of good-neighborly relations.
Berdimuhamedov also highlighted the support of the United States in the project’s development. He specifically noted the role of American consulting firm Bownstein, which has provided guidance on the pipeline’s implementation, and praised longstanding cooperation with U.S. companies including Boeing, Case New Holland, John Deere, Caterpillar, General Electric, Sikorsky, and Nicklaus Design.
Berdimuhamedov referenced Turkmenistan’s role in hosting the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in Avaza, which enhanced the country’s international standing. He noted that the 80th UN General Assembly recently adopted the Avaza Political Declaration, acknowledging Turkmenistan’s contributions to regional development, and thanked U.S. President Donald Trump for supporting the country’s international initiatives.
Berdimuhamedov stressed the importance of the people in national development, quoting Turkmenistan’s President Serdar Berdimuhamedov: “A homeland exists only with its people; a state exists only with its people.” He lauded the tireless efforts of Turkmen gas workers for their role in realizing a project of historic significance.
Concluding his speech, National Leader of Turkmen People, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, officially blessed the launch of this next stage of the Serhetabat–Herat segment. He reaffirmed that the TAPI project would continue to promote long-term development, regional stability, and strengthened ties among Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and neighboring countries.
