Turkmen President Tells Conference of Diversification Efforts

Turkmenistan sees diversification of its natural gas supplies to world markets as a major energy policy priority, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov told the fourth International Gas Congress, taking place this week in Ashgabat.

"Our country is gradually increasing its exports of natural gas," according to a statement published by an Azeri news agency.

According to the Turkmen leader, the holding of the congress in his capital, Ashgabat, demonstrates concrete actions to develop the domestic energy sector in line with the policy implemented in the oil and gas industry, as well as active integration into the global energy system.

"Our country has abundant gas reserves," Berdimuhamedov said. "While serving the interests not only of the Turkmen people, but all mankind, these resources are of great importance for developing the economy of the country and increasing its role in the global system of world economic relations."

The economic potential of Turkmenistan's energy sector will significantly increase after the first stage of the Galkynysh gas field is commissioned in the near future, the Turkmen president said.

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