NEWS & EVENTS


Economic strategy of Turkmenistan: Relying on the people, for the sake of the people




20.04.2010

Part I
I am deeply convinced: if we set down the true aim and go to it by a carefully calculated route, a success imminent. Independent and neutral Turkmenistan confirms it above-said by the practice of its development, which has received qualitatively new acceleration in recent years. The country, as a fantastic giant, strides through barriers and difficulties, carrying the energy and optimism of the people. But let's put allegories aside: the reality of these efforts deserves looking at from the most intent and scrupulous point of view. The world is put before a choice of further way and intense search of the new optimal model of development, including a recovery from a global economic crisis, and Turkmenistan being involved in this process, has declared itself as an equal player and partner, which is following basic three conditions, demanded by the world community - reliability, openness and safety. Since the first day as head of this country the most important task has been the formation of the Purpose that is capable to unite and inspire the nation in achieving new horizons of independence. These horizons were dictated exclusively by internal problems of young statehood but by new calls of time which have sharply risen before the developed and developing economy, before mature and young democracies, Turkmenistan should integrate into a new world system to coordinate and continue internal development proceeding from the enormous potential of the country, its advantageous geo-strategic position, political system of permanent neutrality and necessity of spiritual self-actualization of the nation dating thousands of years back with its culture, and leave an appreciable trace in the world civilization. I have realized well: whatever problems put forward overtime, it would not be possible to solve it without them idea of uniting the nation. Without that, in order to start the belt of energy of the nation, it needs to revive the gene of creation inherent to it. So our door was knocked, as it was called by the journalists, an epoch of new Revival, the name itself served as a key to solve the problems of a new century. All was subject to revival: spirit, traditions, old and new experience, goals and problems, methods and means, in short, all that is expressed by the capacious modern concept "innovation". Along with that it was required to define accurately the state strategy as the mechanism for realization of the national idea, instrument of diversification of economy and creation of its competitive advantages in a world market of division of labour. "The state - for the person" - proclaims Turkmenistan concluding this extremely briefly under the universal form. As a matter of fact, an appealing modern idea of social development through involvement in this process of the human personality without which any national idea will sag as a badly tensed rope over a mountain precipice. Even if we search for the main secret of our confident progression, then it is definitely in the sphere of refraction of new realities and secular traditions of the people exactly at that point where they have converged in political and economic calculation of the state. The belief in creative potential of the nation forces us to build this strategy simultaneously both in key positions, and on flanks, not missing anything - neither big nor small, neither main nor minor, neither long nor momentary demanding decision now and today. There was an issue to effectively adjust the public management without missing anything from that which should work on the end result that is on the person who consumes the product of his own labour but reproducing this product at a new level of knowledge and quality, living in high grade of life, creating a family, bringing up children, getting access to education and culture, in a word, creating values, above all standing in spiritual hierarchy of the people. Such statement of the issue has demanded its attaching in the constitution. In the new edition of the Organic Law of Turkmenistan a human being is proclaimed as the highest value of the society and it has predetermined that all the further steps related to the issues of the creation of civil society, providing to each person deeply motivated and interested relation to their rights and duties. Thus, modern elective democracy has found for itself healthy ground in congenial democracy of the Turkmen people, the democracy which has prepared perception of values of modern civilized development. Certainly, Turkmen democracy is still young, it should get stronger and rise on its feet, but those steps which are undertaken on the maintenance of genuine democracy, origin of the very civil society as a state partner, testify to the verified trajectory of movement in a direction of progress and human development. Soaking up as a sponge, the most advanced world experience, combining, as it is considered to be, a combination of circumstances and orientation to success, Turkmenistan proves to itself first, then to the others that the true values of the modern society are not in the bowels of the earth but in the people, in their knowledge, professional and human return. From here, the combination of circumstances or strictly speaking, diversification pours out into the system, structured approach to manufacture of a cumulative national product - both raw and export focused, and also its distribution with the account of "the human factor". Thus, the preference is given to the model which is not overtaking but to the postindustrial development, the strategy which has offered new formula of development, expressed in a proportional parity of national and global institutions, the market capital and a product, the role of state and a private sector. In short, building the economic model, Turkmenistan assigns primary importance to the protection of national interest by optimal occurrence of its economy in the world economy.

Part II
Once our ancestors, having brought to perfection the ability to live in harmony with nature and use its filigree gifts perfected their vital tools which helped them masterfully cope with all their work in their native land, to create material masterpieces, take very active participation in the functioning of the Great Silk Road, in short, to solve the problems of the century adequately. In our century our tasks have complicated thousandfold and the reasons are of great variety. These are scientific, technical growth and technological breakthrough caused by it, and the new movement of the world caused by new interests and possibilities of the civilization. This is a global problem of the security born by the new challenges and threats to mankind. In our case study, obliging us enormous energy resources and overcoming the essential historical break which negatively reflected the motivation of people to productive work. Dividing thesis that the culture and economy are always national and state structure, cultural institutions, cultural traditions are also included in the understanding about economy. I adhere to the conclusion followed from here that to transform of any economy, especially during the transition stage, a human measurement should be given. What does it mean? It means that none of the reforms declared to society can be carried out without the conscious participation of the people and, of course, their support and social protection. Diligence is the characteristic feature of our nation and the diligence motivated, stipulated by the cast of a soul and by all the factors of the capacity of the environment. In due time, the nation showed wonders of ingenuity adapting the environment they inhabited to reproduce material produced by rational approaches executed, and at the same time the spiritual and moral principles. Like other people conducting the history from the moment of origin of a human civilization, the Turkmen people have succeeded in the creation of their own social and cultural models which are fixed till now in the institute of a family and spiritual traditions. The practice of the revival has demanded not the mechanical carry-over of these traditions onto the new soil but creation of principally new conditions for their reproduction by modeling of their own economy with all its natural and geographical, social and psychological aspects. Having faced with the problems of self-determination in the conditions of globalization we have seen additional self-realization possibilities for ourselves through the variety of the world and regionalization of the relations. Our internal reforms, touching upon practically all industrial, social and humanitarian spheres, have been added with the active foreign policy and external economic strategy directed on the maximum participation of the country in the affairs of the world community. Our Neutrality has become not only an effective tool of international policy, but also as the effective impulse on regional and global space of the world. Work at home, in the country has begun with the definition of priorities which have laid down in a basis of all strategic programmes on putting the country on the international level of development. We proceeded and the state branch and national programmes make essential impact on the structure of industrial goods and services providing them more conformity to the changed public requirements. The main difficulty consisted in optimizing the standards of quality in respect to all programmes where and at what level they would carry out - in capital and in regions, in health care and education, in the industry and in transport field, in construction and in villages. Having begun reforms from the most remote regions in the west of the country in the town Esenguly which possesses rich on stocks and a variety of natural resources, moden etrap (town) with its corresponding infrastructure we have defined lath height to ourselves and all people and to hold the business of our national honour. There was no ploughed field of activity in front of us and it demanded not machinery but people. The people, capable to realize all planned programmes and make serious structural changes in the economy, and intensify them, improve a control system and managing methods. In a different way, there was a problem of reproduction of cultural-professional level of the country which is capable to make an impulse to become the developed state with a high standard of living, education and professional culture of the overwhelming majority of the population. The modern economic ideas state that up-grade starts when the economic movement is coordinated with the values of that culture. Having proclaimed the main value of the person, we started looking for the basic reserve of the production in the human factor as in cumulative national ability of people to realize economic strategy of the state. In turn, achievement of qualitative level of the human factor has demanded appropriate social structures which in the developed state is provided at the expense of the real sector of the economy with its new scientific, technical and technological basis. The programme of radical reform of education including academic, higher, professional, technical, comprehensive schools was derived, not casually, as the number one programme. Like in the schools, kindergartens of the entire country are also equipped with computer classes and modern training programmes. Professional personnel are required in the country capable of being responsible for the destiny of the nation, to lead them further along this complicated world. Opening new institutions of higher education and departments, we prepare future specialists both in our country and in foreign countries where hundreds of students annually go to study and their number will constantly increase. Reestablishing institutions for postgraduate studies and doctoral candidates with High certification committee on seven directions, we pursue the aim to provide all-round preparation of scientific experts proceeding from a complex issue of reform of native science, and its transformation into real productive forces. We want to teach our new generation not only learning lives and provide education but also to develop them physically and spiritually, as sound people. I would say that this is one of the important issues of the government. Our ancestors took care of their health as the one most valuable thing which is given by the Almighty and established on unique system, generally speaking, on maintenance of their healthy way of life where, along with a balanced diet physical training of children and youth provided by innumerable sets of games invented by the people and sports contests. For a healthy way of life we prepared a thoroughly realizing nation-wide programme "Health" and creating corresponding infrastructure, beginning from the modern medical centres and ending with children's resorts and sport schools. Within the framework of the programme "Health" the system of protection of motherhood and childhood, preventive medicine, institution of family doctors have received huge state support. We have inherited including aesthetic views the highest spiritual culture from our ancestors. Being able to work with a clear conscience, our people could also have a rest adequately, putting in all holidays competence and optimism of soul. Today we see our task in that that powerful constructive process to be sustained by the spiritual emancipation of the people and the material basis should be supported by various forms of the encouragement, including measures on development of professional art and arrangement of national competitions, festivals and reviews on revealing national talents. It is clear that solving of social issues whether it is culture, health care or housing, demands much money. Accordingly social structure should have the industrial component supported by the well-elaborated social-economic policy. In the aggregate this is our national model and the target of which is to create developed socially-focused market economy of the mixed type, gradual and stage-by-stage formation of highly effective system with the developed public sector, effective entrepreneurship and modern market infrastructure, the effective macroeconomic regulation providing social guarantees to all levels of population and focusing all economic subjects on achievement of high end results. Our purposes can be stated brieflys follows: "Democratic market reforms - full sufficiency to each family - the strong state".

Part III
The rates of the reforms convince us that we are on the correct path. The entire country is in the building woods, covered by a network of communications and the gas pipelines, one of which has reached already China, becoming a modern symbol of the Great Silk Road. Moreover, it broke all records of extent and became the standard of regional infrastructure having passed on the territory of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan and initiating the whole network of super manufactures on refining, distillation and gas storage. The basis of the industry in the real sector of our economy forms fuel-energy complex (FEC) experiencing complete modernization. There is active development of the Turkmen shelf of the Caspian Sea where treaty provisions share out products and work with the biggest world companies in the sphere of extraction of energy resources. In addition to a gas pipeline Turkmenistan-China, almost at the same time a Turkmenistan-Iran additional gas pipeline was launched. A wide range of works are carried out on the intensification of constructions, establishment of competitive national construction complex, enlarging its material and technical base including on the account of development of local manufacture on production of construction materials. A dwelling house, including elite apartments, which changed the architectural look of Ashgabat beyond recognition, is erected in every corner of the country. Ashgabat scratches the skies with its white marble new buildings. As I have just mentioned above modern children's pre-school establishments, educational and specialized schools, higher educational institutions, medical centers and hospitals furnished with the state-of-the-art equipment, sports schools and even Olympic towns, hippodromes, theatres, Culture Palaces, museums, libraries and many others are built in the capital and regions of the country. Intensification of construction promoted a jump of volume of value added gross year-on-year. Thus in 2008 these volumes increased 3 times, in 2009 - 2.9 times. Recently the cement, carbamide, kaolin and metallurgical plants have been put into operation in accordance with the principle of economy diversification and intensification of investment activity in the country. A new start was given to a totally new sector - mining. Construction of textile complexes is in full swing. In whole the modernization of this sector made it possible to worthily compete with its output at the world market. Gas turbine power plants, food industry enterprises and many other objects, which have turned the country into a giant construction site, are erected all over the country. Development of the "Avaza" tourist zone on the ecologically pure coast of the Caspean Sea is carried out at an accelerated pace. Objects erected on this site are to compete with the world class resorts and this site is definitely to be created in the very near future raising the industry of recreation and tourism to a worthy level. In accordance with this task an up-to-date complex of air-terminal is erected in the city of Turkmenbashy and radical reconstruction of the sea port is also envisaged there. As a whole, within the years of independence there has been created a contemporary transport and communication infrastructure in the country. Recently Tejen-Serahs-Meshhed, Ashgabat-Karakums-Dashoguz, Turkmenabat-Atamurat rail-lines have been laid which possess the access to foreign countries. At present the construction of new railway line Uzen (Kazahstan) - Bereket - Etrek (Turkmenistan) - Gorgan (Iran) with further access to the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean has already been launched. Atamurat-Kerkechi Railway Bridge has been put into operation which will give an opportunity to develop economic relations in Central Asian region and bordering states. Domestic highways of our country are adjusted in accordance with international standards. Total length of highways from west to east and north to south make up 1.7 thousand kilometers. Rebuilding of a village was our prior concern. Taking measures on the development of rural economy and agro-industrial complex as a whole enabled us to meet the major domestic demand in food at the expense of own resources of the country. At present only 5 percent of the total volume of imports is the share of the food supply and this figure has the tendency to systematic decrease. Just for comparison: in 2008 this index almost approached 9 percent. Large complexes, farms and peasant unions are created in the country as a result of development of state-private partnership. Considerable successes have been gained in poultry farming; in the near future its products will completely match the country population's demands in it. A task has been set to found a firm basis got the development of other branches of livestock farming as well as fishery in the very near future. Unique bioclimatic potential and sufficient human resources, given the successful solution of the issue of irrigation water supply, will give the opportunity to the massive planting of fruits, vegetable, cucurbitaceous, berry and nut in the country and guarantee their wide export. Development of the subtropical zone for cultivation of olives, pomegranates, figs, dates, table and sultana variety of grapes a promising future. Competitiveness of this production in world markets is undoubtedly ensured by its high quality and ecological guarantees. We have particular views on the further development of cotton-growing, especially cultivation of high-quality sorts of the fine-fibered cotton. Every plant growing on the generous Turkmen land should be increased by the measures of rational efforts of people on the fields and relevant concern of the Government, that is the way we try to do, bearing in mind the issues of logistics of a village, including the delivery of agricultural machinery from the best world manufacturers, supply of high-quality fertilizers to farmers and tenants, regulation of economic-monetary relations with a view to promote material interest of manufacturers as a result of their work. Our principal trump in the cumulative solution of this problem is the water. From all eternity the Turkmens have always valued it as the most invaluable riches, appraising its each drop as a grain of gold. Our ancestors have created unique irrigation system, having brought to perfection the kyariz method of irrigation. Today, based upon national traditions to carry the things you start through to their logical end, we have set a mission to solve the issue of water in a complex way - to introduce the fallow land in crop rotation and maintain ecologic security in the region. The Turkmen lake "Altyn Asyr", which has already stretched out for hundreds of hectares of land in the centre of Karakum deserts, will serve exactly for this important purpose. The launching of the second stage of the man-made sea in one of the greatest deserts of the planet will allow us to cope with the solution of the urgent problem of the present - the collecting and processing of drainage water in one place with a view of overcoming of their negative ecological influence to the development of irrigated cropping. In a word, everything been and being created on our ancient land, on the one hand, will be to support its progress for achievement of a qualitative standard of living of the people, and on the other - to serve the basis for uninterrupted work of the mechanism of social protection of the population and relevant distribution of the national GDP, founded on the modern institutional base of the state-market regulation. Now the strategy of social and economic development of the country until 2030 is being worked out updating the impact influence of the world financial crisis to this process. Meanwhile this crisis has not caused in phasing out the production, the compelled delays, reduction of workplaces or delays in salary payment. Social privileges in use of gas, the electric power, water, salt and automobile fuel free of charge and other state privileges like in the issues of housing is in full swing in the country. In the field of public health the list of free medical services is strictly observed. The Government considers taking measures to increase employment of the population, preservation and creation of workplaces, development of services as its major task. With these purposes dozens of new enterprises are constructed annually, especially in rural areas, small and medium cities which promote the decrease of internal migration of the population. Wages, pensions, welfare payments and grants are constantly raised in the country, in which the process of minimizing the index of consumer prices essentially levels the dynamics of growth of nominal and real incomes of the population. Payment of wages and other incomes is carried out in strict conformity with target dates. Stable growth of incomes of the population is also expected in the future, which will overtake the general dynamics of the development of the country for the purpose of expansion of internal demand. Thus the population incomes will depend not only on wage levels, but also on equity.

Part IV
I would like to make a special emphasis on the following: "Turkmenistan has entered a phase of economic reforms while the world economic crisis has faced a great number of problems connected with the maintenance of balance in labour market and the capital. As is known the global crisis was preceded by financial crisis in the course of which, after all, there have taken place structural disproportions between financial and credit-and-monetary sphere, on the one hand, and real sector, on the other. So to a definite extent we have appeared in a role of pupils who profit by the mistakes of the world and, maybe, its main mistake is to attach more power to the role of the market as the regulator of social demand and offer. Besides, the market mechanism cannot provide sufficient investment in the human capital, i.e. in primary and secondary education, healthcare, culture, sports. Coincidence of our own way of an optimal mode of development with the joint efforts of the world community on overcoming the consequences of crisis has become our advantage which has caused acquisition of sovereignty by the economy on the basis of the modern institutionalization, which is based on both rational estimation (calculation) and many factors giving a freedom in choosing of institutes, friendly to economic development. Running forward I note that this chosen course has passed a serious test of time so that the potential of the modern Turkmenistan made it possible to minimize the influence of the crisis to the national economy. According to calculations of authoritative international organizations it has lightly reflected the dynamics of economic development of our country. Balanced state regulation with the purpose of taking advantage of all financial and political opportunities of the state including effective structure of capital, high rate of investments to basic funds and human capital have become the fundamental factor in this matter. Successful realization of anti-crisis measures, maximization of their influence on economy are only possible with the provision of the necessary standard of macroeconomic stability, guaranteeing functionality of major sectors of economy, including such parameters like economic growth, population employment, dynamics of overall price level, exchange rate, export and import, capital movement both to and out of the country, stipulated by necessity of analyzing total revenue, the deficiency of which causes the main obstacle in the way of growth of the total gain. The Government of Turkmenistan tries hard to take into account all factors of the crisis while elaborating and realizing anti-crisis measures and it is proceeded from the necessity of preserving the proper volume of cumulative financial reserves for the solution of both anti-crisis issues and that of the strategic development of state economy for the long-term outlook. As of today dynamic microeconomic policy provides the maintenance of significant pace of GDP growth gained at the expense of the realization of strategic programs of long-term development of the country, radical sectoral shifts: diversification and modernization of industrial and natural-material GDP structure. Within the last 3 years the average annual tempo of its development exceeded 109 percent, 17 % of which is the share of the construction sector. In whole, considerable part of the GDP falls on industrial sector. In 2008-2009 fiscal years this index gained almost 72 percent. Prevailing figures of the industrial sector are conditioned by modern priorities of development of the national economy, since the industry meets the internal and external demand: agriculture supplies the internal market with its products, construction draws considerable investments. Real economic potential of the country grows at the expense of the increase of manufacturing resources, improving quality, and perfection of application mechanisms. Meanwhile basic components of the economic development of Turkmenistan is the long-term investment called into money deposits with the view to gaining income and achieving positive social effect. Hence we attach special attention to the creation of a favorable investment climate, diversification of investment sources, acceleration of major projects and programme realization, prior investment to the social and engineer infrastructure. Today in Turkmenistan there has been created an economic system with the sufficiently solid investment potential, which is significantly important in conditions of the world financial crisis. Economy of the country is the surplus on its aspects which promotes to constantly grow "long-term credits", accumulated both in national and foreign currencies. Correlation of investment volume to GDP growth of the state in 2008 equaled to 32%, in 2009 - more than 47 %, where one third of the total volume is the share of the foreign investments drawn by dynamic tempos. In whole it is worth mentioning that at the investment point the country is sufficiently attractive since it does possess with great reserves in both fuel and energy and non-recourse sectors of economy combined with the existing of yet created foremost production potential, manpower resources, steadily strengthening legislative base, as well as the net of the infrastructure branches for successful business, all together creating favorable conditions for further steady economic growth. Private sector also has its priorities which attach strategic character to the state and private partnership in the development and modernization of socio-economic structure of the state. Initiatives on the private sector issues are called to significantly promote changes for the better, introduction of innovations, effectiveness of capital and differentiation of labour. There has been set a task that by 2020 to increase the share of the private sector in GDP growth of the country by 70 percent (with no account taken of the fuel and energy complex). To realize this task it is necessary not only to widen the existing range of partnership on a number of specters of contracts extended by the Government to private companies but also to attach to this partnership more close organizational and legislative linkage concerning programs of progressive development of the country. Concrete steps are made in this direction. Law of Turkmenistan "On the state support to the small and medium entrepreneurship" approved in 2009 is directed to the development of small and medium enterprises. A program on state support to business is being elaborated in compliance with the document. The practice of crediting entrepreneurial structures for 10 years at 5 percent interest per annum for purchasing main facilities as well as crediting for1 year for gaining floating funds are widely applied. By promoting private sector development, State pursues the aim of increasing its contribution to formation of GDP and corresponding increase of incomes of the population. Business itself will be responsible for many social directions. Monetary accommodation of the financial sector is one of the significant directions of the macroeconomic balance of Turkmenistan. In the last years the stability of purchasing-power parity of the national monetary unit is provided in the country, amount of credit resources are intensively increased, liquidity of bank assets is supported, the course on financial support of priorities on real sector of economy developments remains. Unification policy of the national currency was achieved in May, 2008 and denomination of manat is also successfully done since January, 2009. As a result of the undertaken cardinal measures financial and economic condition of enterprises has essentially improved, the movement of money improved, availability of credit resources is provided. In the overall country exchange points are available; even so the rate of manta showing its stability hadn't changed in two years. The monetary policy of the country is aimed also at showdown of inflationary processes, stabilization of consumer prices. In 2009 the rate of inflation made 100,1 percent which is an absolute minimum for all period of calculations of the given indicator. At the aim preservation of stability of consumer prices at the domestic market and also due to interest of local commodity producers in increasing export of goods, customs taxes rates are considerably lowered and on some vital goods they are cancelled all together. Mortgage crediting is developing very rapidly on favorable terms with a view of improvement of security of the population housing habitation. Mortgage is loaned for 30 years under 1% annual interest rate with a grace period till 5 years in which the interest for the credit is paid, instead of the basic debt under the credit. The enterprises and the organizations are authorized to give 50% of discount from the cost of accommodation for the employees who have taken the mortgage credit. Nowadays mortgage credit has been intensively extended in the countryside, small cities and regional provinces. An integral part of the financial policy is the formation of the qualitative tax-budgetary system acting as one of the conditions of active state regulation by economic processes. Level of tax loading on national economy for the recent years makes about 23 percent to GDP. The budget of Turkmenistan being profitable has a social orientation and the profitable part grows with the advancing rates in relation to expenses. Proficiency means accumulation in the Stabilization fund of the country which is established for the protection of the national economy from the negative influence of external factors and is directed on realization of priority government programmes and introduction of innovations. The existing fiscal mode promotes positive dynamics of development of subjects of economic activity and stability of social environment. The taxation provides considerable benefits for priority directions of the development of economy. As I have already noted globalization and transition processes to market relations considerably change a role and state functions. At present time reforms in the political sphere and information sector are initiated in Turkmenistan, and the legislation is updated and the institutional basis is improved. In the modern democratic state a basis to all is the acting legislative base guaranteeing equal possibilities to all its participants. In this direction many things have been done: functions of single legislative authority are transferred to Mejlis, its structure is expanded; many rules were updated and adopted, first and foremost, the Constitution of the country; reference points to multi-party system formation are planned. It is demonstratively visible that institutional reforms touched upon economic block, construction complex and large scale national projects and entrepreneurship sector. New agencies, committees and unions called to promote efficiency of the realization of priority programmes and projects of modern Turkmenistan have been established. The Institution of strategic planning and economic development of Turkmenistan, Institute of state and law at the President of Turkmenistan, Public service academy at the President of Turkmenistan were established and started their work where preparation and retraining of executive personnel for all sectors of the economy is carried out. Possibilities of mass media are extended; population access to a global network of internet is improved. As a whole, institutional reform is directed on as much as possible, effectively to use all financial and political possibilities of the state for realization of the national economic strategy, to provide system and assuming close coordination of economic, socio-political and cultural factors, the approach to solving of management tasks.

Part V
"How the time is for everybody, so the time is for each one" - says the Turkmen proverb, containing the wisdom of the world. One will not say more accurately about interconnection of the world, as well as about, saying in modern language, what is the consistence of human capital. Today it is the main factor of economical growth or permanent progressive development of the economy. World process of advanced investment in human capital is taking place in comparison with materially capital investments. This tendency caused the need for the factor of global security as the main condition of the whole development of human civilization, extending the world economy as economical unity of countries of the modern world, functioning of which is connected with existence of the world labor division, world system of transport and communication, and a world market of goods. Building its economic strategy, also means Turkmenistan's means under it also tasks of participation in the creation of a global model of security, because it sees in it guarantees of national economical security as basis of its economical sovereignty. From this arrives our approach to security as the subject of unique matter, because not one of its elements, whether it is political, energy, food, ecological, could exist separately, without interdependence from each other and without acting as indivisible in the geopolitical context. The position that we take in this issue, strong and unchangeable, because it is based on the neutral status of Turkmenistan acknowledged by the world community. This stability of principles of nonmilitary, politically-diplomatic peacemaking under the aegis of the UN attaches to our neutrality the qualities of flexible and strong mechanism for realization of security tasks where our interests and where they are connected with interests of regional and world order. So, acknowledging most vulnerable parts of the global economy the system of international energy supplies and making corresponding initiative, we, securing support of the UN, the continuously realize this initiative into reality, seeing the final aim in the development of internationally-legal document concerning the transit of energy resources taking into account proposals of interested countries and international organizations. Being the participant to main international conventions and agreements, Turkmenistan makes initiative in the sphere of disarmament problems in the region of Central Asia and the Caspian sea, in the issues of rational use of water resources of the region to secure food security, in the work of recovery of Afghanistan and recovery of its economy, and also for setting close cooperation with structures of the UN in the sphere of protecting of motherhood and childhood, protecting the rights of the disabled, refugees and so on. In solving these and other problems we see real role for the UN Regional Centre for preventive diplomacy in Central Asia that is located in Ashgabat and support more wider and subjected attraction of the Centre to the efforts of the world community undertaken in all these directions. Turkmenistan supports regulations of the Final document of the conference of the UN on global financial-economic crisis and its consequences for development and considers actual proposals that were stated on it concerning the quick reform of the world financial institutes - the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. Turkmenistan intends to widen its participation in the realization of projects and programs, realized in the framework of the UN and its structures, first of all, UNDP, ECE, ESKAPO. Development of international ties of our country will continue as in the framework of already signed agreements, as well by setting new international contacts. It is enough to say, that in practice 109 international programs realized in the sphere of healthcare, protection of environment, education, culture and in number of other areas. Supporting the further development of international law, aimed to promote organization of the normal economic relations between states, Turkmenistan, on its part, guided by organizational-institutional basis of foreign economic relation, that help to successfully realize in practice the policy of "open doors". This policy favorably affected direct foreign investment in development of priority-driven sectors of the national economy. We widely use such form of attracting foreign investment as agreements on production share, that is widely used in international practice. So, every year increase the share of oil and gas, produced by joint or foreign companies "Petronas" (Malaysia), "Dragon Oil" (), "Wintershall" (Germany), "Maersk Oil" (Denmark), "ONGC" (India), "Buried Hill" (Canada). For 2009 the unit weight of oil, produced by joint or foreign companies, was 41 percent, and gas - about 6 percent. Close cooperation with leading American companies "John Deer", "Keis", "Exxon Mobil", "Shevron", "Eurasia Group ", "Boing" and others taking place. It was widely spread construction by foreign companies of various facilities of industrial and social-cultural field. For the period of 1 January 2010 in application of capital investment in the country 117 foreign companies from 25 countries of the world took part. For the same date the number of constructions, realized by foreign companies was 530 units with construction budget 11,7 billion US dollars. In the whole world one of most fast growing areas of foreign economic activities, being a very important source of foreign income is international tourism. Beginning with the implementation of the National tourist zone of "Awaza" we thorouthly estimated its economical feasibility and effectiveness and only after this we come to decision to introduce there the mechanism of a free economic zone, acknowledged by the world community, on the basis of tax, financial and legal conditions and the creation of necessary industrial infrastructure. Complex measures, adopted for the development of "Awaza", envisage a favorable regime for foreign and local investors, businessmen of the tourist industry, including simplification of the visa regime for tourists, tax preferences (during construction and during 15 years after introducing facilities into operation of infrastructure and tourism investors are free from paying tax for property, for income and tax for added value, custom and exchange taxes, from payment for services for licensing and certification and, for rent of land. I mentioned already the development of all kinds of domestic transport, in which we see, besides providing a direct way to the world, it is also a serious source of foreign trade income for the state, creates possibilities of decreasing income for import, and increase expert of income, and extra income from tourism. The intensive and pragmatic foreign economic policy of Turkmenistan allows increasing year by year capacity of foreign trade turnover, average annual rates of growth of which for previous years are on sufficiently high level. During a number of years the positive balance of trade of Turkmenistan is high, favorably reflected on the balance of payment of the country. The main priority in foreign economic policy of the state - gradual transforming of Turkmenistan from the category of the country-exporter of raw materials into country-producer and exporter of ready high technological goods. And by various means the stimulated import of leading technologies, devices and tools. For the last years the share of production of industrial-technological purpose in the structure of import was 70-80 percent. Leading trade partners of Turkmenistan are such countries like Russia, China, Turkey, USA, UAE, Italy, Germany, Japan, Switzerland, France, Iran and other countries. Production of Turkmenistan properly presented in world markets, including numbers natural gas, oil and oil products, electroenergy, polypropylene, liquefied gas, cotton-fiber, cotton yarn, materials, agricultural production and products of processing and others. In the country annually dozens of international conferences and exhibitions are taking place that promote further development of foreign economic relations and creation of joint ventures. At the initiative of Turkmenistan authoritative investment forums in foreign countries are held. Ashgabat is becoming the centre of attraction of scientific and cultural ideas, where regularly gather representatives of intellectual and creative elite from many countries of the world. For further effective integration of the economy of Turkmenistan into the world economic system the country needs proper diversified and modernized industrial potential, developed transport and communication arteries, high quality market infrastructure, economical and legal guarantees, conditions for attracting wide-range investments, and stability of social and political systems. In all these directions continuous work is done and already good results were reached. But the world does not stay in one place and Turkmenistan needs more high speed development planned programs.

* * *

The world practice has proved that the right model of the development of the society is that which promotes the steady economic and political development of socially-oriented and socially-responsible types. The society has approached the recognition of national aims superior to the economics and individual material concerns (interests). All components of force of the modern community are concerned in building such a model and every component should realize its responsibility in this process. The basic component of the model of development of Turkmenistan, the Epoch of New Revival is the social vector. Our potential and every opportunity, vector must be directed most to the achievement of the closest interrelation of economic and social factors of accelerated development. Boosting of huge investments in industrial and social spheres is conditioned on the endeavor of Turkmenistan to gain advanced parameters of development and be worthily ranked among developed countries of the world. Apart from the high-technological lifestyle of the economy, this is the worthy level of welfare of the people. All reforms taking place in Turkmenistan are aimed at gaining exactly such goals, and economic opportunities only serve as instrument for their effective realization.

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov
President of Turkmenistan


State News Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH)

Historic event: in the name of global progress




17.12.2009

These December days marked by the historic meetings in the Turkmen land, undoubtedly, have occupied a special place in the global political calendar, particularly in the light the endeavors to build the new architecture of global energy security as well as the high effectiveness of the intergovernmental agreements – both implemented and new, which were reached during the recent visits of President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, President of the People’s Republic of China Hu Jintao and President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbaev to Turkmenistan. The national interests combined with the political will and economic pragmatism in these arrangements determined the choice of the geographical route of the Trans-Asian gas pipeline as well as a number of other projects aimed at encouraging fruitful international cooperation for the common welfare and prosperity. As was reported the leaders of four countries attended the ceremony of purring the transnational gas pipeline into operation in Lebap Velayat. It is no mere chance that the idea that the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan-China gas pipeline is not just an economic project aimed at increasing gas exports and diversifying the energy transit routes to world markets run all through the talks between the leaders of the friendly states. This is the project both social and political, significance of which should be evaluated from the viewpoint of the prospects of international integration processes. The Trans-Asian energy pipeline put into operation to the applause of numerous participants and guests of the festivities has become a reality of XXI century. Overcoming thousands of kilometers Turkmen gas started to run to the East via this pipeline and will run because it is needed by China’s dynamic economy, because it is needed by people. Running from the richest gas fields on the right bank of the Amu Darya River the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan-China gas pipeline over 7,000 kilometres long with hundreds of infrastructure facilities built on the route and thousands of new jobs created in the region is a unique engineering facility. In the practice of international relations the new energy bridge is a unique precedent of peace and cohesion, goodwill and openness, the readiness for long-term and dependable partnership that guarantees the welfare to the countries and nations. Embodying the idea of reviving the Great Silk Road it promotes the dialogue of cultures and civilizations, exchanging best practices and positive ideas, concerting efforts to respond to threats and challenges of the modern world. The universality and prudence of President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s policy aimed at realizing the aspirations of the nation for the benefit of the whole mankind becomes most apparent in this integrated and comprehensive approach to addressing the issues of national and global development. This is the only correct path among other ways and routes. It is gratifying to know that receiving high-ranking guests this time Ashgabat confirmed its authoritative reputation of a hospitable host, who continually generates constructive ideas and initiatives balancing views and leading practical results. It has become a tradition that the Turkmen-Chinese top-level talks as well as the meetings between the leaders of the neighboring states – Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are held in the invariable atmosphere of particular solemnity and at the same time spiritual affinity, cordiality and sincerity. It can be rightfully said that the success of the talks was predetermined for the roads to it are laid in all dimensions – both temporal and spiritual and moral. Moreover, for all importance of the political and economic aspects, the peculiarities of general perception of the world and reality imbued with deep reverence of the national history, centuries-old cultural heritage and traditions come to forefront when it concerns cooperation between the brotherly peoples of the friendly countries.


Turkmenistan - Uzbekistan - Kazakhstan - China gas pipeline launched




14.12.2009

The international Turkmenistan - China gas pipeline was officially launched at Samandepe field in Lebap province of Turkmenistan on 14 December, 2009. The ceremony was attended by Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Chinese President Hu Jintao, as well as Presidents of the transit countries - Islam Karimov of Uzbekistan and Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan.
The heads of the four states participated in the opening of a set of industrial and infrastructure facilities that ensure the work of the pipeline. The first gas treatment plant, which was built on the right bank of the Amu Darya river, will feed the pipeline with 5 billion cubic meters of tank gas annually. The set of facilities also includes gas gathering points, compressor stations, a gas measuring installation, engineering and external communication networks. A large group of existing wells have undergone a major overhaul and several new wells have been drilled at Samandepe field.
It is expected that the 7,000 km long pipeline, through which up to 40 billion cubic meters of Turkmen natural gas will be supplied to China annually for the next 30 years, will reach the projected capacity by 2012. The total length of the international gas pipeline in the territory of Turkmenistan is 184,5 km, in Uzbekistan - 490 km, in Kazakhstan - more than 1300 kilometers, in China - more than 4500 kilometers.
As the State News Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH) noted, "the construction of a new gas transport system for Turkmen gas exports marked the successful implementation of Turkmenistan's energy strategy that is now making a huge contribution to the creation of an improved database of global energy security." The new pipeline will "not only strengthen the economic power of our country, safe and prosperous life of our people, but will also serve the interests of the peoples of the region and the world," the agency said.


State News Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH)

ADDRESSING CHALLENGES OF MODERN WORLD




Turkmenistan’s Modern Foreign Policy Priorities

President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov held the press conference on the results of the visit to New York where the Turkmen leader had taken part in the 64th session of the United Nations General Assembly and conducted a series of the bilateral meetings and political consultations with the leaders of the states and world business elite.

The political observers of the foreign news agencies and periodical press and the Turkmen journalists – the editors-in-chief of the newspapers and journals, the heads of the TV and radio channels, the students of the Faculty of Journalism of the Institute of International Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and Magtymguly Turkmen State University took part in the press conference, which was held at numerous requests.

The political observers of the foreign news agencies and periodical press and the Turkmen journalists – the editors-in-chief of the newspapers and journals, the heads of the TV and radio channels, the students of the Faculty of Journalism of the Institute of International Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and Magtymguly Turkmen State University took part in the press conference, which was held at numerous requests.

Ladies and gentlemen, Dear journalists,

I am very glad to meet with the representatives of Turkmen and foreign mass media. A pleasant occasion for our meeting today are the results of the visit of the government delegation of Turkmenistan to the United States of America, New York city where we took part in the 64th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

In the address to the session of the United Nations General Assembly I stated our country’s views on the important foreign policy issues.

Turkmenistan’s views were the focus of discussion during numerous bilateral talks with the leaders of the states and the heads of the authoritative international organizations.

The utmost eventfulness of the program of the visit to the United States of America did not let us respond to even one third of the requests for the meetings and talks, which had been submitted to the secretariat of the Turkmen delegation by the participants of the 64th session of the UN General Assembly.

Of course, we are pleased with worldwide interest in Turkmenistan, its approaches to the foreign policy issues and achievements in the economic and social spheres.

Dear journalists,

I believe that I will be able to satisfy the profound interest shown in our country.

I am ready to answer your questions about the results of the participation of the government delegation of Turkmenistan in the 64th session of the UN General Assembly.

We welcome you to ask questions!

Vepa Nazarov (Watan news programme, Turkmen TV):

- First of all, let me congratulate you on the success of Turkmenistan’s mission to the regular session of the UN General Assembly. The attention paid by the Assembly participants to your speech testifies to the steady growth of Turkmenistan’s prestige among world community. Today the country actively generates the new political models to address the complicated issues regulating international relations. Please, share your vision of development of the modern political processes and Turkmenistan’s contemporary role in world community.

- I think I will not discover America if I say about a particular discrepancy of the existing trends in development of a global political situation. Towards the end of the first decade of the contemporary age, the world, for the most part, lives with the political canons and stereotypes, which were established after World War II and developed during the ‘cold war’.

The burden of the obsolete political notions and motivations is apparent for many. If one thinks for a moment the theme of global financial crisis dominating in the news worldwide can be regarded as a vivid illustration of the need to reform the existing system of global collaboration in the changing world. The leaders of many states, the international organizations urgently seek for the mechanisms for achieving stability of the system of international political and economic relations. This trend became apparent at the 64th session of the UN General Assembly.

When considering the situation from the historical point of view we can highlight the evident trends, which are intrinsic of our time only. The world around us is changing rapidly. The transformations – political, technological, scientific, social and others, which took many centuries, takes only a decade nowadays. It is important not only to keep abreast of ongoing changes but also to find strength to overcome inertia of the obsolete political stereotypes. What is much more important is to have an error-free political prevision, the ability to foresee correctly the trends in development of world community and respond promptly to modern challenges.

Turkmenistan has gained sovereignty as an independent member of world community quite recently. However, the specificity of the contemporary global situation is formed so that the fate of the planet depends not only on the will of the traditional political heavyweights. Today every country can and must find the areas for concerting efforts in common aspiration for universal values, building harmonious relationships among different states and nations. I believe that Turkmenistan will be able to keep with the advanced pace of development of the global political thought.

As for the priority task set to world community – aspiration for global security Turkmenistan builds its approaches to this problem aiming its efforts to achieve stability in Central Asia and the Caspian region.

Let’s take for example an urgent problem mankind faces today such as achievement of civil peace and stability in neighbouring Afghanistan. A number of the representatives of world community presented without prior arrangement a military model for resolving the inter-Afghan conflict. This protracted approach has not led to peace and cohesion on the long-suffering land of Afghanistan.

Abiding by the principles of good neighborliness and mutual readiness to help, Turkmenistan offers its (demilitarized) approaches to addressing Afghanistan’s problems and contradictions. We will continue to help our southern neighbor to construct social facilities, supply electric power, provide humanitarian aid and we hope that our contribution to improving the quality of life of the Afghani people will turn out to be much more effective for revival of the country than any coercive solutions.

Let’s touch upon another regional problem – an access to water resources. This is a quite urgent problem for the Central Asian states.

Today Tajikistan where the major sources of drinking water of the post Soviet countries of Central Asia start faces an acute shortage of electric power and sees the solutions to this problem in construction of new hydraulic power stations that could have an adverse impact on the common volume of water discharge. Turkmenistan urged the countries of the region – Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan to take a participatory approach to this problem – joint financing the solution to Tajikistan’s energy problem to keep the volume of water discharge unchanged. We involve the specialists of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy in Central Asia in Ashgabat in monitoring the activities and we believe that the further use of the existing techniques and the United Nations legal mechanisms (including the arbitral bodies) will allow bringing the situation up to the level of making mutually acceptable decisions.

I provided only two examples that can seem particular in the everyday practice of global political processes. Though, in my opinion this is a concrete contribution of a particular country to the global processes of harmonizing relationships.

Conflicts and contradictions of these processes are most often dictated by the subjectivity of the approaches to their solutions. The criterion for objectivity can be achieved only through involving the authoritative international organizations, first of all the relevant agencies of the United Nations Organization, in addressing complicated problems.

In most cases only this way leads to achievement of an appropriate result.

Mihail Pereplesnin (Turkmenistan Magazine – Russia):

– Dear Mr. President, how far do you think the potential of the United Nations Organization meets requirements of the changing world? The debates about the fading effectiveness of the UN, the need to reform the organzsation are not occasional, aren’t they?

- Indeed, these debates have been conducted for a long time. There are enough moderate as well as radical proposals. We have no doubts that despite the transformations taking place in the world the lofty humanistic ideals of the United Nations must remain the moral and legal foundations of the world order. The reforms of the UN’s work can be contemplated only through them. We are for reforming the United Nations to consolidate it further, increase the effectiveness of its work, extend the role and functions of the community of nations as the guarantor of global peace and stability.

From the first years of its independence Turkmenistan pursues foreign policy seeking to enlist support of world community through using the whole spectrum of the political tools of the UN structures. Such was the procedure of gaining international recognition of the status of neutrality of our country. Such was the opening of the abovementioned Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy in Central Asia under the aegis of the United Nations in Ashgabat. These two examples can be quite illustrative of the possible ways to enhance the potential of the United Nations Organization.

The Regional Centre – the first, experimental structure of the United Nations of this kind when the UN experts work not in the hub office with the thick window glass panes but in immediate proximity to the ongoing events, have an opportunity to study and promptly respond to a situation. Is not it a new technique for the effective activity of the think tank of global community?

The second example. Collective and unanimous recognition of Turkmenistan as the country with the status of permanent neutrality from the UN member states almost fourteen years ago became an unprecedented step in world practice. The experience accumulated by our country over the past years in leading an effective international dialogue on a basis of the status of permanent neutrality evidence the extraordinary effectiveness of applying the model like it in world practice. The clear conclusion inevitably comes to mind: the more countries: the more countries follow the lead of Turkmenistan and express the willingness to gain the status of permanent neutrality the more peacefully and safer we will feel in this world.

Turkmenistan stands ready to share its rich political experience with each member of world community so that the UN’s methodology applied once will be spread on the planet as wide as possible.

I think those, who make bold to assert that the effectiveness of the United Nations decreases, pursue the momentary selfish political ends and is unable to see the vast potential of a creative approach to enlivening the activity of the UN agencies.

Today Turkmenistan actively seeks to eliminate the problem of reliable energy transit. I think global efforts of such kind would be less effective without the UN’s organizational support and being secured by its high international authority.

Bahar Muhyeva (Turkmenistan TV Channel):

– Does it mean that Turkmenistan singles out the idea of reliable energy transit as a foreign policy priority particularly because economic advancement of the country depends to a larger extent on stability of natural gas exports?

- I would rather view this situation in wider sense. Indeed, Turkmenistan – one of largest hydrocarbon exporters in the world, and this its status will not weakened with the lapse of time because we have the proved reserves of hydrocarbon resources that will be sufficient for active export over dozens of years. Aren’t the largest consumers – China, Russia, Western Europe be less interested in stability of gas exports?

An impact of feverish fluctuations of raw materials markets and in world oil prices eventually on world economy is not accidental. By the way, in the near future gas market will be of not lees importance for the planet than oil exports.

Reliable energy transit is not a sphere of the mercenary ends of a particular country but global challenge. Furthermore, it is an integral part of the system of global security. For example, military security cannot be considered in isolation from the political, economic, anthropogenic, ecological and other aspects of the problem. Along with it, the existing international system of energy exports and imports remains a quite vulnerable link of world economy: there is no the universally recognized framework for legal liability for breaking the agreements on the guarantees of uninterrupted transit of energy. Therefore, we have the right and must view the vulnerability of this link as a threat to global security.

It should be noted that we meet the real understanding of our stand on this issue by a majority of world community. It was before during the international consultations at various levels, it was in New York – during the session of the UN General Assembly and the bilateral talks with the leaders of the states. Today urging all the interested countries to make a final decision we reaffirm our readiness to contribute to developing and drafting the future global international legal document on reliable transit of energy.

Orazdurdy Hojanazarov (Altyn Asyr: Turkmenistan TV Channel)

- In your address to the UN General Assembly, you, dear Mr. President, said that “you firmly believe that the fewer weapons is in the world, the more sustainable and peaceful its development will be, the more confidence and understanding will be among different countries and nations”. We believe that this your thought drew a wide response in the hearts of peoples across the world. Also, you promoted Turkmenistan as the venue for an international conference on disarmament in Central Asia and the Caspian region. How urgent is this problem for the region?

- For anyone, who is even scarcely familiarized with the contemporary geopolitics, is aware of the fact that our region is really oversaturated with weapons of all types and components of their production. An abundance of the military bases of different countries in the Caucasus and Central Asia did not make the lives of the peoples of the region more peaceful.

Turkmenistan insists that the obvious need to discuss the measures and tools of regional security at the representative international forum has boiled up.

By promoting Ashgabat as the venue for this conference we want to spotlight the readiness of our country to provide overall support for the disarmament processes in the region. A very important step was made three years ago to achieve this goal when all the Central Asian states signed the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Semipalatinsk. This process requires smooth continuation. The less weapons of any kind remain in the region and across the world, the more sustainable the processes of economic advancement and mutually advantageous international cooperation will be.

Husein Er (TRT Broadcasting Company, Turkey):

– Doesn’t that you have said discord with your recent order to strengthen the technical base of the Turkmen navy on the Caspian Sea?

- The term “Turkmen navy”, alas, is not entirely correct. As you may remember when the military fleet was divided in the former USSR, all the fighting ships of the Caspian fleet went to the ports of their registration –Baku and Astrakhan. Turkmenistan received only two or three patrol boats. Thus, the term “Turkmen Navy” has not been used for a long time because of the absence of the fleet as it is. There is and can be no question of large-scale build-up of naval forces.

As you know, the five countries with the outlet to the Caspian Sea are involved in the negotiations on the problems of delimitation of the maritime boundaries, conservation of marine biological resources and creation of a weapon-free zone on the Caspian Sea. This process is not easy, however it consistently moves forward. I think we all are on the right track and will be able to turn the Caspian Sea into the sea of peace and cohesion.

Aleksandr Vershinin (Associated Press Agency, USA):

- Going on with the Caspian Sea Basin what is your opinion about the existing controversies between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan related to the zones of jurisdiction in the water area?

- Indeed, these controversies have existed for a quite long period of time. It is said that the major controversies arise around the claims of the parties to the disputed oil fields of the central part of the offshore area, where Azerbaijan has started to actively develop hydrocarbon deposits already.

I should remind that throughout the negotiation process Turkmenistan upheld the fundamental position that until the legal norms the zones of jurisdiction was not established, development in the disputed territories is illegal.

Today Turkmenistan prefers solving the legal problem than disputing about the ownership of the particular geographical areas. Until we arrive at a mutually acceptable agreement on the location of the median line of the sea in the geographical coordinates, it is impossible to promote further political and economic development of the region, to address the urgent problems of conservation of biological resources of the Caspian Sea, shipping, the zones of jurisdiction of the littoral countries.

Standing steadfast to the chosen priority of a complex approach to the problem, we have recently suggested the arbitration way to settle controversies. I gave instructions to the relevant departments to draft and submit the necessary documents to international arbitration for consideration.

We declared in advance our readiness to accept any of its decision. Thus, Turkmenistan clearly designated its goodwill to eliminate misunderstanding among the littoral countries, to create the zone of non-confrontational development of international political and economic cooperation on the Caspian Sea.

Touching upon the real steps taken by our country to create the most favorable conditions for mutually advantageous partnership in the Caspian Sea Basin, I cannot help providing the work launched on the eastern seashore nearby Turkmenbashi town to create Avaza international tourism zone as an illustrative example. This grandiose project on the seaside resort with diversified sport, recreation and entertainment infrastructure has attracted dozens of the companies from all over the world, who appreciate its investment attractiveness.

For the past years that passed since the first presentation of the idea of Avaza seaside resort six hotels had sprung up on the seashore and received thousands of guests during this year’s holiday season. This is only the beginning. In a few years when hotels and health-improving centres increase in number we will be able to receive hundreds of thousands of guests in Avaza.

We see Avaza in the near future as not only a full-fledged recreation area for citizens of Turkmenistan but also the centre of useful and pleasant contacts among the peoples of all the littoral states as well as the international base for diversified development of tourism and transport infrastructure. In fact, the model of Avaza will suit the future image of the Caspian region as an area of peaceful and mutually enriching contacts among tourists and businessmen of all the coastal states.

Vladimir Gubanov (Neytralny Turkmenistan Newspaper):

- The curious fact became known in the lobbies of the UN General Assembly: five hundred copies of the text of your speech were not enough to meet the demand and the secretariat of the Turkmen delegation had to print out three hundred more copies to distribute among all those willing. What is the reason for such intense interest in your country?

- I should confess that I was pleasantly surprised by the abundance of the signs of sincere interest that literally fell upon on the Turkmen delegation. We received many proposals on bilateral meetings with the leaders of the states, the authoritative international organizations, the top managers of the world’s largest companies. The extraordinary richness of the program of the visit to New York did not allow honoring even one tenth of all the requests. I had the time to meet and talk with those who had appointed the meetings in advance.

At the same time I apprehend this fact with the feeling of pride for my country, which tirelessly demonstrates openness to fruitful international cooperation and meets the greater understanding of its positive aspirations from world community. The leaders of the states and the international organizations view Turkmenistan as a dependable political partner and businessmen strive for the Turkmen market being aware of the high rates of our economic progress, reliability of the national legal framework and stainless reputation in our financial responsibility. The meetings, which we had to postpone in New York, will certainly take place in the near future in the most favorable atmosphere. We do not neglect any of out contacts that promise fruitful partnership.

Igor Sasin (Frans-Press Agency, France):

– During your meetings and talks with the representatives of the world political and business elite in the United States many political observers focused on pragmatism of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy strategy. It is said, that most your decisions, dear Mr. President, have the task-oriented and thought-out economic implication. How far are these assumptions true?

- Undoubtedly, they are true. It cannot be otherwise. There is the strategic policy of economic, social and spiritual revival of the country, fulfillment of our major task formulated as “a state for the people” supported by the people. The rest are only the means to achieve this goal. Accordingly, all the foreign policy aspirations of the state, eventually, if not directly but indirectly, are subject to our ultimate goal.

To achieve it is impossible until Turkmenistan positions itself as a dependable member of global community, who is ready to comply with the universally accepted norms and values. The reputation Turkmenistan has earned in recent years as a dependable and predictable partner in global cooperation and a country abiding by its international commitments arouses interest and confidence among foreign partners – both existing and potential.

Those, who closely follow the international news in, are aware well of the grandiose changes taking place in Turkmenistan. To imagine this process is impossible without a reliable economic partnership with the world top producers of goods and technologies. Today most reputable companies from around the world, who know about the stability of the national economy and attractiveness of the investment climate, put much effort to get to the Turkmen market.

We are responsive to many proposals and carefully select the best of what is offered today by global manufacturing and technological practice. Addressing the issues of international business cooperation we keep away from the political conjuncture: we don’t conclude the disadvantageous economic agreements in exchange for the political dividends. In this regard I am ready to agree to the term “maximum pragmatism of the foreign policy aspirations”.

Metin Koshger (Ihlas Habarlar Agency, Turkey):

- The recent practice has shown that Turkmenistan displays increased interest in not only trade and economic cooperation. How can your country’s interest in such ‘noncommercial’ fields as science, culture, education, sport be explained?

- Development of culture, reforms of the education and scientific systems are the priorities of national development. The education reform launched in our country provides for its contribution in wide international cooperation, scientific, educational and cultural exchange. Ion this activity Turkmenistan attaches primary significance to cooperation with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

We highly appreciate UNESCO’s assistance in preserving and popularizing the rich cultural and historical heritage of Turkmenistan and the unique natural sites of our country. To date three cultural and historical monuments located on the territory of Turkmenistan: Ancient Merv, Kunya Urgench and Nisa are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. We submitted the proposals on the inscription of the cultural and historical site – the ancient settlement Missirian-Dehistan, six unique natural sites – the State Reserves – Badkhyz, Syunt-Hasardag, Repetek, Amu Darya, Khazar and the unique natural monuments – the Plateau of Dinosaurs and onyx caves in the Koytentag Mountain.

Turkmenistan intends to continue to develop and expand cooperation with UNESCO through the National Commission as well.

In this context Turkmenistan considers an opportunity to join the relevant UNESCO conventions.

Moreover, Turkmenistan actively develops and maintains the large-scale programmes of humanitarian cooperation covering a wide range of the issues of education, culture, science, sports with almost all foreign partners.

It will take more than one hour to enumerate all the aspects and trends in this activity. The recent brightest events include the Silk Way-2009 Rally – the enthralling off-road racing of the Dakar series along the route Kazan-Ashgabat initiated by Turkmenistan and supported by the leaders of Russia and Kazakhstan.

These competitions that will be held on a regular basis in future ranks among the brightest event in the sports calendar of the three countries-organizers and in world motor sport. The successful finish of the car racing was viewed as the sportsmen’s victory as well as the triumph uniting different people with the ideas of global humanitarian cooperation.

Merdan Gazakbaev (Galkynys Newspaper):

- The news agencies of the American city of Trenton – the capital of New Jersey reported the curious fact: September 24 was announced there the Day of President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. We would like to heartily congratulate you on this remarkable event and could you, please, share your impressions of this precedent?

- I regard this event as recognition of Turkmenistan’s prestige that has increased worldwide in recent years, as evidence of the greater understanding and approval our foreign policy meets all over the world.

Kakageldy Charyyardurdyev (Press Secretary of the President of Turkmenistan):

– Dear Mr. President, I would like to heartily congratulate you on the historic and deeply substantial speech at the 64th UN General Assembly. It drew a wide response in world community, international mass media that illustrates the increasing interest in Turkmenistan. That is proved by this press conference. I would like to thank you for the opportunity of a meeting and wish good health, long life, further accomplishments.

In conclusion the Turkmen leader thanked the journalists for the participation and interesting questions and wished good health and every success in their work for the benefit of numerous readers, TV and radio audience.

The President expressed belief that such meetings would be organized in future to discuss important issues.

Speech by President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov at the 64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly




(New York, 23 September 2009)


Dear Mr. President,
Dear Mr. Secretary General,
Distinguished Heads of Delegations,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of the people and Government of Turkmenistan I cordially welcome and congratulate you on the opening of the 64th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

I congratulate the honorable Mr. Ali Abdel Salam Al-Treyki on election to the presidency of the UN General Assembly and express my confidence that under his leadership the General Assembly will work successfully and productively. I would also like to express our gratitude to the distinguished Mr. Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann, the President of the 63rd session of the General Assembly, for skilful and effective work at this post.

Dear Mr. President,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

The current state of global realities, the nature and trends of political, economic and social processes today require objectively closer and more coordinated cooperation between states and major international organizations around the common main objective of ensuring, on a global scale, peace and security, creation of conditions for further development and progress, and preservation of legal and moral foundations of the modern world order. The effectiveness of such interaction, finding a reasonable balance between national interests and the interests of the entire international community, will largely determine success and deal with other, equally important global issues - environmental, energy, food, issues of equitable distribution of water resources, the impact of work on poverty reduction, infectious diseases, anti-narcotics and other challenges.

Speaking about implementation of these goals is impossible without the recognition and confirmation of the critical role of the United Nations. Over the last sixty-odd years, the UN is the main guarantor of the preservation and maintenance of world peace, security and development. During this time, our organization has gained high prestige in the world, has gained unique experience in helping to solve complex international problems, and has acquired a solid legal basis for cooperation between states.

The UN was and remains the foundation of the modern world, attracting multitude of hopes and aspirations of all mankind. In the present circumstances the United Nations must become a mainstay in the creative activities of states in building a fair and balanced system of international relations.

From this perspective, Turkmenistan considers the issues of reforming the UN. We are aware that a number of aspects of its activities need to be improved, and made more efficient, according to the requirements of the day. This is normal and natural process, the logic of today's dynamic development of the world. That is why we are for reasonable reform of the UN, but only in the direction of its further strengthening and steady consolidation of positions in the international system of interaction, expanding its role and functions as a guarantor of global peace, stability and development. We believe that the reform of the Organization should be meaningful, targeted, and correlated with the actual needs of the international community.

Turkmenistan supports the efforts of UN member states, and its Secretary-General aimed at making the Organization's work more dynamic, efficient, transparent and democratic. In this context, Turkmenistan agrees on the need to further improve the structure of the Security Council, and closer and effective cooperation between the Security Council and General Assembly.

Dear Mr. President,
The main goal of Turkmenistan's foreign policy was and remains the greatest measure of assistance to the world community in its efforts to maintain and strengthen the global security system, prevent and neutralize the threat of conflict, ensure conditions for a stable and sustainable development of nations and peoples, and broad and constructive international cooperation.

We consider in this context that the permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan and related features of its legal status open good opportunities for the United Nations to positively influence the course and nature of the processes in Central Asia and Caspian Sea region. It is about establishing here permanently the existing mechanisms for international dialogue to discuss various aspects of regional issues and develop on them for reaching mutually acceptable consensus. Based on the past experience of political and diplomatic peacekeeping under the UN auspices, Turkmenistan declares its readiness to provide the world community with all the necessary political, organizational and technical conditions for this work. In this context, we believe that the decision adopted by the United Nation in 2007 to open the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy in Central Asia with headquarters in Ashgabat was very important and promising. Currently, the Center is actively monitoring and analyzing regional perspectives, taking active part in various activities on critical development issues in Central Asia, including at the level of heads of state, and assisting in developing approaches to address these issues. In this context, Turkmenistan welcomes the collaboration of different states, international organizations, financial and economic institutions, and UN experts to develop constructive models of regional development processes.

In shaping the approaches to the problem of ensuring global security, we believe in integrity and indivisibility of the concept, in the geopolitical sense and in terms of coherence of specific aspects. We are convinced that security of one country cannot be achieved in the absence of security in the region, the continent, and the world. Similarly, political and military security will not be long term and full-fledged without economic, energy and food security, without warning and management of environment and manmade risks, without effective countering of international terrorism, organized crime, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and other global challenges.

From this perspective, one of the most relevant components of global security is energy security. This is primarily due to the fact that the current system of international energy supplies has become a vulnerable link in the global economy. Such vulnerability is characterized by a number of reasons - political instability in certain regions of the planet, lack of internationally recognized regulatory and legal mechanisms, the imperfection of the infrastructure, and lopsided geography of pipeline routes. All of this affects the overall atmosphere in the world market for energy supplies. It is an objective necessity to alter this situation, overcome the inertia of the stereotypes, reach a new level of thinking in line with modern requirements. We are not talking about any preventive measures or local agreements on certain aspects of transportation of fuels, but creation of fundamentally new, universal model of relations in the world energy markets; the model based on a multilateral balance of interests, common views and perceptions about the architecture of global energy security, the understanding of long-term benefits and advantages of cooperation.

Launching a broad international dialogue on the issue of energy supplies is seen as a first logical step. We need to find the contact line of interest, determine the starting positions, and a common language in which to engage in the dialogue. In other words, it is necessary to create a framework for meaningful and interesting interaction. With this in mind, during the last session of the General Assembly, Turkmenistan took the initiative to formulate the universal mechanisms that would ensure reliable and safe operation of international energy supply infrastructures, and access to and effective use of the energy resources. The first step in this direction was the resolution of the General Assembly of the United Nations on reliable and stable transit of energy resources and its role in sustainable development and international cooperation, adopted unanimously on the initiative of Turkmenistan, on 19 December 2008. Taking this opportunity, I would like to express my appreciation to all the states for their support of our initiative for a responsible and constructive attitude in this matter.

Following in the letter and spirit of the resolution, Turkmenistan hosted, in cooperation with the UN, a high level International Conference on reliable and stable transit of energy resources and its role in sustainable development and international cooperation, in Ashgabat in April 2009. One outcome of the conference was a proposal to ask the United Nations to consider establishing an expert group to prepare recommendations for a future international legal instrument on the transit of energy resources in the light of proposals by interested countries and international organizations. Turkmenistan is ready to fully contribute to the formation of this group within the UN and calls upon all concerned states to formulate proposals for its work. We believe that such a group could be the first step in the process of preparing a comprehensive document of the UN aimed at ensuring the effective functioning of the international system of energy supply, including issues related to security of energy transportation systems.

Dear Mr. President,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Facilitating the disarmament process, reduction of the arsenals of weapons, especially the weapons of mass destruction and their proliferation, continues to be one of the key themes of the global agenda. We believe that there is no place in modern international relations for the legacy of the Cold War; the recurrence of block confrontation, when the quantity and quality of available weapons was almost the main criteria of authority of states. We believe that the lesser weapons there are in the world, the more stable and safer it is for development, the more trust and understanding it will create between nations and peoples.

As is known, in 2006, Semipalatinsk Treaty was signed on the establishment of a zone free of nuclear weapons in Central Asia. All countries in the region acceded to the Treaty. This joint initiative was in tune to the aspirations of the majority of the world. It has received high appraisal of the international community, and gained approval in the UN General Assembly. We believe relevant in this regard the holding in the first half of next year under the UN auspices, an international conference on disarmament issues in the region of Central Asia and the Caspian Basin. Our country is ready to sponsor such an event. We would also welcome constructive proposals of the international community and individual nations to promote global disarmament processes, and we will actively engage in implementing these proposals.

One of the greatest challenges on a global scale today is to effectively counter such threats as international terrorism, drug trafficking, and transnational organized crime. For several reasons, this problem is particularly relevant to our region. We are convinced that only joint efforts of states, in close cooperation with international organizations, can successfully counter these threats. In this context, Turkmenistan believes in a special role of the United Nations. We believe it is necessary and timely for the increased participation of the UN and its institutions and agencies in the formulation and coordination of effective models of international cooperation in order to neutralize these threats, activating the mechanisms of preventive diplomacy, creating the conditions for post-conflict rehabilitation of economic and social infrastructure.

It is therefore necessary to emphasize the importance that Turkmenistan attaches to the revival of Afghanistan, establishment of lasting peace on the Afghan soil. Our country is providing assistance to Afghanistan in rebuilding its economy, in the construction of social and humanitarian facilities. This work will continue. We want to see Afghanistan a peaceful and prosperous country, a good neighbor and partner of all the countries of the region. At the same time we believe that in the Afghan settlement an important role can and should be played by the United Nations. We are convinced that the UN peacekeeping system, with its enormous experience, and the highest moral authority, can offer new forms and models in the context of political and diplomatic efforts to solve the problems of Afghanistan, and induce reconciliation and peace in this country. Today, such work can be intensified and made more efficient, given the potential of the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy in Central Asia. Turkmenistan advocates greater involvement and engagement of the Regional Center in the efforts of the international community to resolve the situation in Afghanistan.

Dear Mr. President,
Distinguished members of delegations,

Awareness of the international community of commonality of the long-term commitment to development goals and willingness to work together to implement them is today the condition of stability throughout the system of international relations. The serious consequences of the global financial crisis once again demonstrated the necessity to unite the efforts to build a global security architecture, and create conditions for equitable and just relations between nations and peoples, based on recognized international legal norms and the great, enduring ideals of the United Nations.

Turkmenistan believes that the responsibility, morality and humanity will become the defining criteria for current and future generations to judge our work. We, as a nation, as a member of the international community, will continue to contribute to the consolidation of these lofty principles in the management of international affairs, consistently implementing the philosophy of the Turkmen neutrality, in which the strategic partnership with the United Nations has a fundamental role.

Thank you for your attention.

President of Turkmenistan meets with UN Secretary-General




President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, who had arrived in New York to attend the 64th session of the UN General Assembly, had a meeting with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.

Cordially greeting the leader of the Turkmen state at the UN office the UN Secretary-General expressed the gratitude to the Turkmen leader for the personal participation in the large international forum as well as the country’s active contribution to building long-term, fruitful cooperation with the United Nations. Ban Ki-moon emphasized that electing Turkmenistan Vice Chair of the regular session of the advisory body of the United Nations for the second time vividly evidenced the high authority of the Turkmen state, which resolutely moved forward along the path of fundamental reforms and put forward the important international initiatives under the leadership of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.

Thanking the UN Secretary-General for the heartfelt welcome Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov expressed gratitude for assisting in effective promotion of the constructive dialogue established in recent years as well as comprehensive support of Turkmenistan’s initiatives aimed at ensuring sustainable development of the countries in the region and global security.

In the traditionally friendly and sincere atmosphere the sides exchanged views on the current state and prospects for further cooperation that was firmly based on the positive practice of partnership. Focusing on primary significance attached to collaboration with the United Nations Organisation Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said that Turkmenistan, in turn, welcomed and completely supported the idea of reforming, extending the role and functions of this largest and authoritative international organization.

It was noted that over the years of fruitful cooperation as a full member of the United Nations Turkmenistan had proved its adherence to the undertaken international commitments declaring and implementing in practice its intention to develop the mutually beneficial, equal dialogue with all interested countries of the world and international organisations. Standing steadfast to the humanistic ideals advocated by the United Nations Turkmenistan, whose status of neutrality had been delegated by the community of nations and supported by 185 UN members states, put forward the initiative to open the unique structure, which had no analogues in the region, - the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia that brightly illustrated active and close cooperation among the countries in the region and the United Nations Organization.

Thanking Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov for providing comprehensive support and assistance to the UN Regional Centre the UN Secretary-General congratulated the leader of the Turkmen state on the success of the high-level conference “Stable and Reliable Transit of Energy and Its Role in Ensuring Sustainable Development and International Cooperation”, which had been organized on the initiative of Turkmenistan to implement the relevant Special Resolution of the UN General Assembly.

Touching upon the issues of regional cooperation Ban Ki-moon welcomed the endeavors of Turkmenistan, which played a profound role in restoring the peaceful life in neighboring Afghanistan and expressed gratitude for Turkmenistan’s new initiatives and constructive ideas to address problems and challenges of the region. In particular, these included the water and energy problems that were the focus of the meeting of the Central Asian leaders in Almaty (Kazakhstan), during which Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov had suggested establishing the special expert group which would closely collaborate with the UN and its agencies and other international organizations on the water and energy problems.

Emphasizing that only the well-coordinated and fair approach must be taken to these problems the President of Turkmenistan invited the UN Secretary-General to take part in a special meeting which would be conducted in the Turkmen capital this November.

Noting that Turkmenistan implemented its foreign-policy strategy in strict compliance with the UN standards and principles Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov put emphasis on the need to establish a work group under the aegis of the United Nations, which would be responsible for drafting the complex international legal document that would stand as the guarantor of stable and reliable transit of energy to world markets.

During the meeting Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov briefed Ban Ki-moon on the large-scale reforms implemented in all spheres of the life of the Turkmen state, which ranked among the dynamically developing countries of the world during many years. Highly appreciating the positive reforming processes taking place in the country Ban Ki-moon expressed belief that Turkmenistan viewed by the United Nations as a dependable and long-term partner would be successfully develop further.

In conclusion the sides exchanged the wishes of every success and expressed the mutual interest in new joint projects which had the common noble aim – to actively promote social and economic development of independent neutral Turkmenistan and achieving the global goals of the third millennium.

ANNOUNCEMENT




01.04.2009

Turkmenistan is beginning to take specific practical steps at the national level to set up a reliable and stable system to supply Turkmen energy to international markets.Turkmengaz State Concern announces the international tender for design and construction of the East-West gas pipeline in the territory of Turkmenistan and ground-based infrastructure to ensure the effective operation of the East-West gas pipeline.

The length of the East-West gas pipeline in the territory of Turkmenistan varies from 800 km to 1,000 km. The works on design and construction of the East-West gas pipeline in the territory of Turkmenistan will be financed under the agreement between the Parties on the following terms:

- foreign investments;

- shared sponsorship of the Turkmen and foreign Parties on an equal footing;

- financing by the Turkmen Party.

The companies, firms, enterprises requesting for the tender are:

- to submit a written application on the intent to apply for a tender indicating an applicant’s full name, legal status, country of incorporation and details,

- to get acquainted with the tender procedures for design and construction of the industrial and social facilities for oil and gas and fish industries of Turkmenistan;

- to obtain tender documents after US$ 1,150 (one thousand one hundred and fifty) with VAT per lot are paid.

The eligible candidates should submit the applications to Turkmengaz State Concern at 56, Archabil Avenue, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

The deadline for submission of tender proposals is June 27, 2009. The account will be specified after the written application is submitted.

For further information

website: www.oilgas.gov.tm

tel: (+99312) 40-33-39; 40-39-50; fax(+99312) 40-32-51

Turkmenistan announces international tender




01.04.2009

President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov instructed the government at a meeting on 27 March, 2009 to announce an international tender to design and construct an East-West gas pipeline in the territory of Turkmenistan as well as ground infrastructure ensuring its efficient functioning. The length of the gas pipeline will be from 800 to 1000 km. Upon the sides' agreement the pipeline construction will be financed in accordance with the following scheme: foreign investments; share holding of the Turkmen side on a par with foreign partners; funds provided by the Turkmen side. Turkmenistan's decision to hold an international tender to design and construct the East-West gas pipeline logically continues the UN General Assembly December 2008 resolution on "Reliable and Stable Transit of Energy and its Role in Ensuring Sustainable Development and International Cooperation" proposed by the president of Turkmenistan.

A high-level international conference on the issue of security and stability of international energy supplies will be held in Ashgabat on 23-24 April 2009 to build on the provisions of the resolution. It will gather representatives of dozens of states, major companies, authoritative experts, political analysts, and mass median representatives. In this context, simultaneously with the work in the international format, Turkmenistan is beginning to take specific practical steps at the national level to set up a system of reliable and safe supplies of energy resources to world markets. Turkmenistan sees the East-West gas pipeline construction project as an important component of such a system. Turkmenistan believes that apart from obvious commercial benefits for project participants, prospective consumers and transit countries, the implementation of this project will help further improve the performance of pipeline infrastructure and have positive effect on the pace of economic and political processes in various countries.

Remaining strongly committed to principles of a broad multilateral dialogue in the important spheres such as ensuring energy security, Turkmenistan reaffirms its readiness to place its vast resource potential, benefits and advantages of its geographical location at the service of goals of sustainable development while taking practical steps towards establishing mutually beneficial international cooperation in this sphere.

Turkmenistan celebrated 17th anniversary of independence




Turkmenistan celebrated Independence Day on 27 October 2008. Festivities were held on this occasion in Ashgabat, which were attended by Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov.

By tradition, a flower laying ceremony was held at Independence Monument. The head of state laid flowers to the memorial, which is located in the scenic park in the south of Ashgabat.

A military parade followed by a civilian part started at 10 am in the main square of Ashgabat. The parade was broadcasted live on the national TV. All branches of the Armed Forces of Turkmenistan took part in the military parade, including cadets who demonstrated excellent performance in theoretical, combatant and military training in the military college, military academy and police academy. The contemporary military hardware of the national army was also demonstrated during the parade. These were columns of motor-rifle units and armored troops carriers, artillery units, mechanized rocket artillery, and anti-missile units. The parade participants and guests also saw Mi-8 and Mi-24 helicopters, SU-25 and MiG-29 attack planes that flew past over the square. Turkmen President, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Army General Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov attended the festive parade.

Constitutional Amendments




The extraordinary XXI session of Khalk Maslakhaty (People’s council) of Turkmenistan was held on September 26, 2008 in Ashgabat. During this session some amendments are including in the Constitution of Turkmenistan.

The Khalk Maslakhaty (People’s Council), the supreme representative body of power in the country, has ceased to exist. The Council’s main functions were transferred to the President, Mejlis, Cabinet of Ministers and Supreme Court of Turkmenistan.

The numbers of members of the parliament were increased from 65 to 125 with the aim of increasing the people's representation in the high legislative body. The election in this regard is expected to be held in December 2008.

British company confirms gas reserves in Turkmenistan's east




British Gaffney Cline & Associates (GCA), globally renowned consultancy company, has completed its assignment on the audit of gas reserves at South Yoloten-Osman (SYO) and Yashlar fields located in the Amudarya river basin in the eastern part of Turkmenistan.

The British company's estimates of the South Yoloten-Osman deposits are as under: a low estimate is 4 trillion cu. m.; an optimum one - 6 trillion cu. m., and a high one - 14 trillion cu. m. Officials of the company has confirmed that Comparing the South Yoloten-Osman (SYO) gas field reserves with those of Dovletabad, Turkmenistan's largest deposit until recently, the amount of SYO gas is five times as great as those of Dovletabad, which can be rated as fifth or fourth in the world.

The audit of gas reserves by an independent international expert is important in terms of guarantees gas reserves for gas pipelines, both under construction and proposed by Turkmenistan, which would carry Turkmen natural gas to the world markets. Given the confirmation gas reserves, it is now clear that whatever the results of further verifications, there is more than sufficient gas to fulfill Turkmenistan's current contract commitments. The said company has also audited the reserves at the adjoining Yashlar field. According to its report, the Yashlar holds: low estimate - 0.25 trillion cu. m.; optimum estimate - 0.675 trillion cu. m.; and high estimate - 1.5 trillion cu. m.