Ashgabat, October 22, 2026 – The Europe Today: The 31st International Conference and Exhibition “Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan – 2026” commenced on October 21 at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, bringing together international energy companies and industry representatives to discuss investment opportunities, energy security and the future development of the global energy market.
The event, held in the year proclaimed “Independent, Permanently Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Horses,” was organised by the State Concerns Türkmengaz and Türkmennebit in cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan.
Participants listened to a welcoming address by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov before visiting the accompanying exhibition, where more than 130 major companies representing key players in the global fuel and energy sector showcased their products, technologies and services.
The international conference sessions began in the afternoon, focusing on major developments in global energy markets, emerging opportunities for international cooperation, and prospects for attracting foreign investment into Turkmenistan’s oil and gas industry.
Discussions covered the development of existing oil and gas fields, optimisation of production at newly discovered deposits, and the expansion of exploration and drilling activities. Particular attention was given to the development of offshore blocks in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea and the intensification of drilling operations in new areas.
During the plenary sessions, participants examined strategic priorities for Turkmenistan’s energy sector, its contribution to regional energy security and the importance of strengthening international partnerships.
The diversification of natural gas exports, expansion of pipeline infrastructure and implementation of major international energy projects featured prominently in the discussions. These included the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline project and the continued development of the Galkynysh gas field, one of the country’s key natural gas resources.
Participants also highlighted Turkmenistan’s ongoing efforts to modernise its oil and gas industry through advanced technologies, environmentally responsible production methods and expanded capacity for the deep processing of hydrocarbons.
Increasing the production of value-added petroleum and gas products was identified as another important priority in enhancing the sector’s competitiveness and economic contribution.
The conference underscored Turkmenistan’s energy strategy, which is based on the principles of permanent neutrality, mutually beneficial cooperation and sustainable development. The strategy aims to improve the reliability of international energy supplies while strengthening the country’s position as a major regional energy hub.
Following the plenary sessions, the international forum continued with panel discussions, with further thematic breakout sessions scheduled as part of the conference programme.
