Turkmenistan and China are exploring new opportunities to deepen cooperation in the energy sector, with a strong focus on expanding joint projects in natural gas production and infrastructure.

The issue was discussed during talks between Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in New York, where both sides reviewed prospects for strengthening bilateral energy ties, The Caspian Post reports via Kazinform.

The discussions come as Turkmenistan accelerates efforts to expand cooperation with Chinese companies in key areas of the gas industry. Turkmengaz has identified pipeline systems, drilling equipment, gas processing technologies, and heavy construction machinery among its top priorities for future collaboration.

Speaking at the Turkmenistan-China business forum in Ashgabat, Deputy Chairman of Turkmengaz Murad Archaev highlighted opportunities for Chinese firms to participate in supplying drilling rigs, large-diameter pipelines, gas treatment equipment, welding materials, and other technologies critical to the country's energy sector.

Momentum in the partnership has been building throughout 2026. In March, Turkmengaz and China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) signed a turnkey contract for the design and construction of facilities for the fourth phase of the giant Galkynysh gas field, one of the largest natural gas deposits in the world.

The new phase is expected to add up to 10 billion cubic meters of annual gas production capacity, boosting Turkmenistan’s export potential and reinforcing its role as a major energy supplier to China.

Drilling operations for the project officially began on April 17, marking another significant milestone in the long-standing energy partnership between the two countries.