Core Viewpoint - Turkmenistan, a small Central Asian country, has demonstrated its commitment to financial responsibility by repaying an $8.1 billion loan to China ahead of schedule, showcasing a strong partnership that has significantly boosted its economy [1][22]. Group 1: Economic Development - Turkmenistan has the world's fourth-largest natural gas reserves, totaling 13.6 trillion cubic meters, with the Galkynysh gas field being the second largest globally [5]. - The country faced economic challenges despite its resource wealth due to a lack of funds and technology, leading to reliance on foreign investment [7]. - China provided $8.1 billion, equivalent to 40% of Turkmenistan's GDP at the time, without any stringent conditions, aimed at developing the country's natural gas resources [9][11]. - Following the establishment of the Central Asia-China gas pipeline in 2009, Turkmenistan became China's largest natural gas supplier, exporting 40 billion cubic meters annually [15]. - Over the next decade, Turkmenistan's economy grew sevenfold, with a consistent GDP growth rate of around 6%, significantly improving the living standards of its citizens [20]. Group 2: Strategic Partnership - Turkmenistan repaid the $8.1 billion loan in 2021, countering Western skepticism about its ability to meet financial obligations [22]. - The repayment was motivated by the desire to maintain a strong partnership with China, which has become crucial for Turkmenistan's economic stability [24]. - Following the loan repayment, Turkmenistan proposed the construction of a new gas pipeline to increase annual gas supply to China from 40 billion to 65 billion cubic meters, with a long-term goal of 85 billion cubic meters [28][29]. - The new leadership in Turkmenistan has continued to prioritize cooperation with China, further solidifying the strategic partnership across various sectors, including infrastructure and industry [35][39]. - The relationship has evolved beyond mere trade, with both countries supporting each other in international forums, highlighting a deepening strategic alliance [39][41].
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Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-09-17 14:12