Pakistan, Turkmenistan to expedite TAPI project

Agree on continuous engagement for regional energy cooperation

ISLAMABAD:

High officials of Pakistan and Turkmenistan called on Wednesday for accelerating execution of the much-awaited gas supply project, called TAPI, under which a long pipeline would be built that would pass through Afghanistan and culminate in India.

“TAPI (Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India) pipeline project will lower energy costs, boost industrial growth, create jobs and foster economic development,” remarked Federal Minister for Petroleum Dr Musadik Malik, adding that reliable and affordable energy supplies were vital for industrial sectors and the overall economic stability.

Malik met Turkmenistan’s Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov, who was on a two-day visit to Pakistan along with a delegation.

Malik emphasised that substantial progress had been made on the TAPI project through collaborative efforts aimed at fostering economic integration and energy security.

He expressed the resolve for continuous engagement among both countries as Pakistan was fully committed to the project, which was critical for regional energy cooperation and infrastructure development.

“The visit of Turkmenistan foreign minister marks a significant milestone in strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations,” he remarked.

Speaking on the occasion, Meredov underlined that together the two countries would chalk out a roadmap for cooperation.

TAPI Pipeline Company CEO Muhammetmyrat Amanov mentioned that with special interest of Pakistan’s petroleum minister and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), the TAPI project made significant progress and was on the right track.

Highlighting the developments, officials from both sides emphasised the project’s strategic importance in enhancing regional connectivity, promoting economic growth and meeting energy demand of the participating nations.

They underscored their commitment to continued cooperation and mutual support to overcome any remaining challenges. Continuous diplomatic efforts and political commitments were beneficial for a conducive environment for project advancement, they said.

The project is a testament to the enduring partnership between Pakistan and Turkmenistan, reflecting shared goals of regional stability and prosperity through sustainable energy solutions.

Meredov was accompanied by a delegation including Ata Haljanov, Head of International Economic Cooperation Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Eziz Nazarov, Head of Legal Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Muhammetmyrat Amanov, Board Chairman and CEO TAPI Pipeline Company Limited, and Atadjan Movlamov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan.