Core Viewpoint - Turkmenistan, despite its vast natural gas reserves, has struggled economically due to geopolitical challenges and ineffective resource management, but has made significant progress through strategic partnerships, particularly with China, and diversification of its economy [3][5][9]. Group 1: Economic Challenges - Turkmenistan has a population of over 6 million and possesses 13.6 trillion cubic meters of natural gas, yet its per capita income is only around $1,000, ranking low among Central Asian countries [3][5]. - The country has historically faced difficulties in selling its natural gas, with failed negotiations with the EU and reliance on a neutral foreign policy that limited its engagement in global power struggles [5][7]. Group 2: Strategic Partnerships - In 2007, China invested $8.1 billion to develop the Galkynysh gas field, leading to the construction of a pipeline that allows Turkmenistan to sell 40 billion cubic meters of gas annually to China, significantly boosting its revenue [7][9]. - By 2023, Turkmenistan signed a new agreement with China to supply gas for the next 30 years, with a contract value exceeding $100 billion, highlighting the importance of this partnership [11]. Group 3: Economic Diversification - In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Turkmenistan diversified its economy by collaborating with Turkey to produce pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, recovering 80% of its export income by 2022 [9][11]. - The country has also invested in education and agricultural reforms, establishing technical schools and implementing modern irrigation techniques, which have improved food self-sufficiency to 80% in certain regions [13][15]. Group 4: Bilateral Relations with China - Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1992, Turkmenistan has maintained a cooperative relationship with China, which has not imposed political conditions on economic ties, fostering a stable partnership [15]. - The increasing number of Turkmen students studying in China and the presence of Chinese goods in Turkmenistan reflect the deepening bilateral ties [15].
超铁盟友典范!还清中国81亿债务,还赠百亿能源大礼表诚意
Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-09-16 09:42