New gas pipeline between Iran and Turkmenistan

Turkemenistan and Iran recently opened a new gas pipeline which will make it possible for Turkmenistan to export up to 20 billion cubic metres of its gas to Iran annually. The pipeline is 30.5 kilometres long and runs between Dovletabad, Serakhsi and Ethangeran.

The pipeline was opened during Iranian President Mahmud Ahmajinedad's visit to Turkmenistan. Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdymuhammadov also attended the ceremony.

The opening of this pipeline forms part of the Turkmen policy of diversifying its gas exports. Some time ago a new pipeline connecting Turkmenistan with China was opened, and at the end of 2009 an agreement was signed between Turkmenistan and Russia on strategic cooperation in the sphere of energy and heavy industry.