John Defterios, APCO’s Chair for the Middle East and North Africa, spoke about Turkmenistan’s opportunities to enter new export markets. The expert made these remarks at the international conference and exhibition “Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan — 2026” (OGT 2026), according to Turkmenportal.

According to the expert, the country’s prospects are linked to its significant natural gas reserves and long-standing cooperation with major companies and foreign partners. Defterios previously served as an editor covering emerging markets and an energy correspondent for CNN. This is the expert’s first time participating in OGT, though he is well acquainted with Central Asia and its connections to global markets.

Defterios highlighted the longevity of Turkmenistan’s partnerships, which have been developing over the past 20–30 years. Presentations by representatives from Turkey and the European Gas Center at the conference also attest to the growing interest in the country’s development.

Among the key factors for further growth, he cited international cooperation, the expansion of gas exports, and economic development. The expert considers modern infrastructure and a well-educated youth to be additional advantages for Turkmenistan.

According to the APCO representative, the combination of natural resources and strategic partnerships opens up long-term prospects for the country. Concluding his remarks, the expert congratulated the OGT organizers on the conference’s 31st anniversary and emphasized the importance of discussing export markets, international cooperation, and economic development.

According to an APCO representative, the combination of natural resources and strategic partnerships offers the country long-term prospects. At the conclusion of his remarks, the expert congratulated the OGT organizers on the conference’s 31st anniversary and emphasized the importance of discussing export markets, international cooperation, and economic development based on natural resources.