The “Central Asia Gas Ring” project could open an additional route for Turkmen gas supplies to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan and, with the necessary pipeline interconnections in place, to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Existing export commitments would remain unchanged. Valérie Ducro, Executive Director of the Global Gas Centre (GGC) in Geneva, made the statement at the 31st International Conference and Exhibition “Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan – OGT 2026,” according to the news website Turkmenportal.

Ducro described the project as an example of moving from statements to practical action. She noted that, at the latest Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, the President of Turkmenistan highlighted opportunities for cooperation in developing pipeline infrastructure and electricity supplies. Particular attention was given to strengthening long-term energy ties amid volatility in global markets.

According to Ducro, Turkmenistan’s proven natural gas reserves range from 11 trillion to more than 13 trillion cubic metres, placing the country among the world’s top five in terms of gas reserves. Turkmenistan exports more than 30 billion cubic metres of gas to China annually. The Central Asia–China gas pipeline system has an annual capacity of 55 billion cubic metres. A planned additional pipeline line to China would increase capacity by a further 30 billion cubic metres per year.

Ducro also highlighted growing gas demand in countries south and east of Turkmenistan. India plans to increase the share of natural gas in its energy mix from approximately 6% to 15% by 2030, while Pakistan has a population of around 240 million.

Among the key priorities, Ducro identified the development of interconnections between gas networks, the creation of favourable conditions for investment and the diversification of export routes. She also stressed the need to reduce methane emissions throughout the gas supply chain. The Global Gas Centre is ready to provide a neutral platform for dialogue among market participants.