Afghanistan, Turkmenistan discuss Herat gas pipeline expansion and distribution networks

Afghanistan and Turkmenistan have held discussions on the development of the Herat gas pipeline and the expansion of gas distribution networks, as Kabul seeks to attract investment and introduce modern technologies to the country’s energy sector.

Akhtar Mohammad Mansour, Chief Executive Officer of the state-owned Afghan Gas Company, held talks with officials from Turkmenistan’s state-owned Turkmengaz company and representatives of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project during a visit to Turkmenistan, where he attended the country’s international oil and gas conference.

According to Afghanistan’s General Directorate of State-Owned Companies, the discussions focused on issues related to gas transmission and distribution, as well as the use of advanced equipment and internationally recognized technical standards in the sector.

Mansour reportedly identified the adoption of modern technologies in gas extraction, transmission and distribution as a key priority for Afghan Gas.

Focus on Investment and Technical Cooperation

During the visit, the Afghan Gas chief also met with representatives of international companies to explore opportunities for technical and commercial cooperation.

The discussions emphasized direct cooperation, the exchange of technical expertise and experience, and the adoption of new technologies. Mansour also highlighted the importance of attracting investment to Afghanistan’s gas sector.

The General Directorate of State-Owned Companies said the meetings provided an opportunity to strengthen ties with international firms, identify potential areas for joint cooperation and present investment opportunities in Afghanistan’s gas industry.

TAPI Project Remains a Key Regional Energy Initiative

The TAPI gas pipeline project is designed to transport natural gas from Turkmenistan through Afghanistan to Pakistan and India, making it one of the region’s major energy cooperation initiatives.

The expansion of gas transmission infrastructure and distribution networks could help improve access to energy in Afghanistan while creating opportunities for investment and strengthening regional economic cooperation.