Turkmenistan - The Times Of Central Asia

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Amid Sanctions, China’s Xinjiang Strengthens Ties with Central Asia

China’s Xinjiang region is deepening its engagement with Pakistan and Central Asia as part of efforts to counter Western sanctions and bolster its role in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). On November 26, officials from Xinjiang met with their counterparts from Kazakhstan’s Zhetysu region for the first meeting under a new cross-border coordination mechanism. The discussions focused on cross-border tourism, infrastructure, market regulation, quarantine measures, and joint crime prevention. The meeting culminated in the signing of a memorandum on cross-border tourism. The discussions took place near the port of Khorgos, a critical hub for the China Railway Express, which connects China with Europe. Khorgos is home to China’s first cross-border cooperation center, where residents of neighboring countries can engage in business and shop visa-free. The center allows duty-free purchases of up to 8,000 yuan ($1,104) per day. Xinjiang Governor Erkin Tunyoz stressed the importance of strengthening ties with Zhetysu in areas such as trade, tourism, security, and agriculture. This cooperation is becoming increasingly crucial for Beijing as Xinjiang grapples with sanctions from the United States and other Western countries over alleged human rights abuses—a claim that China denies. Sanctions include the U.S. Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, which prohibits imports from Xinjiang suspected of being produced using forced labor. Similar measures have been implemented by Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. In addition to its collaboration with Kazakhstan, China has established a dialogue mechanism with the five Central Asian countries—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Since 2020, foreign ministers from these nations have met annually to discuss logistics, trade, investment, agriculture, mining, and security. Li Lifan, a Central Asia scholar at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, described Xinjiang as a “bridgehead” for the BRI. He highlighted the region’s rich natural resources and its role as a base for major industries, including automobile manufacturing. In 2023, trade between Xinjiang and Central Asian countries surged by 50%, reaching 283 billion yuan ($39 billion). Despite these successes, Li cautioned about future challenges. He noted uncertainties surrounding potential Western secondary sanctions, geopolitical tensions, and Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine. Additionally, U.S.-China relations remain fraught, with further unpredictability anticipated under the leadership of Donald Trump. “Full economic development may only be achievable once global tensions ease,” he said.

Central Asia Turkmenistan Turkmenistan International Affairs International Affairs Turkmenistan Business & Economy Business & Economy

Construction of TAPI Gas Pipeline Begins in Afghanistan

Afghanistan has commenced the practical phase of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project, one of the region’s most ambitious infrastructure initiatives. Local media report that essential materials and equipment have been delivered to the border areas between Afghanistan and Turkmenistan, enabling work to start on the Afghan section of the pipeline. The TAPI gas pipeline will span 1,814 kilometers, with 774 kilometers crossing Afghanistan. Once operational, the pipeline will transport 33 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually, significantly boosting economic development across the region. Afghanistan is set to receive 5 billion cubic meters of gas each year from the pipeline and create over 12,000 jobs for its citizens. Economists estimate that the project could generate approximately $1 billion annually in revenue for Afghanistan. Discussions around the TAPI pipeline began in the early 2000s, and in 2013, an agreement was signed to form a consortium. The Turkmen state-owned company Turkmengaz holds an 85% stake, while Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India each hold 5% shares. Construction on the Turkmenistan section of the pipeline began in 2015 and has since been completed. Afghanistan is the next country to advance the project, with work on the section from Serhetabat to Herat initiated in September this year.

Cultural Heritage Central Asia Turkmenistan Life & Culture Life & Culture Turkmenistan

Turkmen Scientists Acquire Over 100 Rare Manuscripts from the UK

Researchers from the Institute of Language, Literature, and National Manuscripts at the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan have returned from the United Kingdom with 107 electronic copies of valuable manuscripts. These acquisitions enrich the collection of historical materials documenting the cultural heritage of the Turkmen people. From November 2 to 23, researchers Amandurdy Nuraev and Guichmyrat Changliyev conducted studies at two of the UK’s most renowned repositories: the British Library in London and the John Rylands Research Institute and Library in Manchester. These archives house extensive collections of historical documents, including rare manuscripts with significant relevance to Turkmenistan’s history and culture. The expedition culminated in the transfer of electronic copies of key documents to Turkmenistan. Among the manuscripts are works by prominent authors such as Makhtumkuli Fraghi, Alisher Navoi, Fizuli, and Hussein Baygara, along with other renowned oriental poets and scholars. Special emphasis was placed on uncovering works previously unknown to the Turkmen academic community. In addition to literary compositions, the manuscripts provide unique insights into the history and traditions of the Turkmen people. These materials offer new opportunities for studying the heritage of Makhtumkuli Fraghi, a celebrated figure and symbol of Turkmenistan’s national culture. This significant achievement enhances the preservation and understanding of Turkmenistan’s rich literary and historical legacy, contributing to broader academic and cultural exploration.

Central Asia Turkmenistan Turkmenistan International Affairs International Affairs Turkmenistan Local Politics Local Politics

Global Human Rights Body Condemns Inaction of Turkmenistan’s Ombudsman

The Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (OHCHR-SCA) has issued sharp criticism of Turkmenistan’s Ombudsman Office. According to the Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA), the institution has failed to actively protect human rights despite credible reports of serious violations by state entities. One major concern highlighted by the SCA is the Ombudsman’s lack of responsiveness to appeals from human rights organizations. This raises doubts about its ability to engage in meaningful dialogue and cooperation with key stakeholders. The SCA also expressed alarm over the absence of transparency in how civil society is involved in ensuring the independence and impartiality of the Ombudsman’s operations. Furthermore, limited access for applicants and a poorly maintained website—last updated in February—underscore deficiencies in the institution’s functionality. The controversy surrounding Human Rights Ombudsman Yazdursun Gurbannazarova further fuels criticism. Last year, Gurbannazarova reportedly pressured journalist Soltan Achilova to cancel a planned trip to Geneva, a move widely condemned by observers. These actions reinforce the SCA’s assessment that the Ombudsman’s Office is not fulfilling its mandate. Turkmenistan has long faced scrutiny from human rights organizations for systematic violations. Amnesty International has reported widespread use of torture, denial of medical care to political prisoners, and persecution of opposition figures within and outside the country. Human Rights Watch has documented cases of intimidation, including threats against the families of dissidents living abroad. The SCA’s findings shed light on Turkmenistan’s ongoing challenges in addressing human rights concerns and underscore the need for reforms in its Ombudsman Office to meet international standards.

Central Asia Environment Turkmenistan Turkmenistan Local Politics Turkmenistan Features Features

Satellite Data Reveals High Methane Emissions in Turkmenistan’s Oil and Gas Fields

The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) has released the first images from MethaneSAT, a cutting-edge satellite designed to monitor methane emissions globally. The data reveals significant leaks from key fossil fuel production regions, including the United States, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. Initial findings indicate methane emissions from North American and Central Asian production sites are substantially higher than earlier estimates based on ground-based monitoring. Both Turkmenistan and the U.S. are signatories to the Global Methane Pledge, which aims to reduce global methane emissions by 30% by 2030. MethaneSAT is part of a new wave of satellite missions focused on holding major emitters accountable for curbing methane leaks. This comes amid alarming findings from a September study by Stanford University, which reported that global methane emissions are increasing at an unprecedented rate, driving atmospheric methane levels to their highest in 800,000 years. Without immediate intervention, researchers warn, the planet could face a temperature rise exceeding 3 degrees Celsius by 2100. Methane, a greenhouse gas over 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide in the short term, is primarily released through fossil fuel production, agriculture, and waste decomposition. In 2020, human activities were responsible for 65% of methane emissions, with agriculture and waste contributing two-thirds and fossil fuels accounting for one-third. While agricultural emissions are harder to mitigate, initiatives like the Methane Pledge prioritize reducing methane leaks in fossil fuel production, which are more readily addressed. The MethaneSAT mission highlights the urgency of reducing emissions and pressuring major fossil fuel producers to take swift action. The Global Methane Pledge accommodates different national circumstances, allowing countries like New Zealand, where fossil fuel emissions are minimal, to focus on reducing methane from agriculture and waste. With atmospheric methane levels reaching critical thresholds, MethaneSAT and similar initiatives aim to catalyze a global effort to combat this potent driver of climate change.

Cultural Heritage Central Asia Turkmenistan Life & Culture Life & Culture Turkmenistan Turkmenistan International Affairs International Affairs

Ashgabat Hosts Vibrant Days of Korean Culture, Showcasing Music, Art, and Tradition

On November 22 and 23, Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, became a hub of cultural exchange during the Days of Korean Culture, an event organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. The festivities kicked off on November 22 at the Arkach Shopping and Entertainment Center, where visitors were treated to a lively introduction to Korean culture. Colorful photo zones displayed scenic Korean landscapes, while interactive stations allowed attendees to craft souvenirs such as traditional-style trinkets and mirrors. Korean snack tastings and live music enhanced the festive atmosphere, making it a family-friendly event that drew many visitors of all ages. The celebrations culminated on November 23 with a concert at the Makhtumkuli Music and Drama Theater of Turkmenistan. Korean artists, accompanied by the State Symphony Orchestra of Turkmenistan under the direction of Rasul Klychev, delivered a memorable performance. The program featured a blend of Korean lyrical compositions inspired by love and nature, alongside timeless pieces of world classical music. A standout moment of the evening was the performance by acclaimed Korean singers, tenor Kwon Hwapyeong and mezzo-soprano Kwon Miji, which earned a standing ovation from the audience. Kwon Hwapyeong, a graduate of the Vienna University of Music and Korea National University of the Arts, is celebrated internationally for his exceptional artistry. Mezzo-soprano Kwon Miji, a distinguished alumna of Gyeonggi-do University with further studies abroad, has similarly garnered acclaim for her remarkable vocal range and stage presence. The concert was a fitting finale to Ashgabat's fall cultural season, blending the traditions of Korean musical artistry with the creativity of Turkmen performers.