A.   Background

This refer to QCs (in trail, blue, italic and after double line):

(a) EIQC 322 of 16.4.24 about Turkmenistan TTA & TAPI early Finalization expected

(b) PGEC 78 of 13.3.24 about TAPI Gas Project to continue & KCV

B.   TAPI Introduction

1.   As you may be aware, The Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) Gas Pipeline, also known as Trans-Afghanistan Pipeline, is a natural gas pipeline being developed by the Galkynysh – TAPI Pipeline Company Limited with participation of the Asian Development Bank. The pipeline will transport natural gas from the Galkynysh Gas Field in Turkmenistan through Afghanistan into Pakistan and then to India. Construction on the project started in Turkmenistan on 13 December 2015, while construction of the Afghanistan-Pakistan section of the pipeline was held in February 2018. Proponents of the project see it as a modern continuation of the Silk Road.

2.   In 2023, construction of the pipeline remains stalled. In August 2024, the Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Raşit Meredow met virtually with Afghanistan's Deputy Prime Minister for economic affairs Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. Following this meeting, Foreign Minister Meredow "said that Turkmenistan is ready to begin work on the TAPI project in Afghanistan with the aim of developing political and economic relations."

C.   Updated Commentary

1.   Further to KQU 2989 dated 2.8.24, being an important matter, we would inform you about Pakistan, Turkmenistan decide to accelerate work on TAPI (Attachment 116.1) with emphasis ours in bold for quick reading.

2.   Pakistan and Turkmenistan have decided to accelerate work on the TAPI gas pipeline project.

3.   In this regard, Minister for Petroleum Mr Musadik Malik met the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Cabinet of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredow, who was on a two-day visit to Pakistan.

4.   In his remarks, Mr Malik said substantial progress has been made through collaboration on the TAPI Gas Pipeline project aimed at promoting economic integration and energy security.

5.   Speaking on this occasion, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Mr Rashid Meredow said that a roadmap will be prepared for enhancing cooperation between the two countries.

6.   The CEO of TAPI Pipeline Company (Mr Muhammetmyrat Amanov) said that the TAPI gas pipeline project has made significant progress and is on the right track due to the interest of Pakistan's Ministry of Petroleum and Special Investment Facilitation Council.

D.   Kasbati & Co Views

Upon completion, the pipeline will be helpful for energy-starved countries (including Pakistan) and would pave the way for regional peace and stability as well as boost Economic activities by meeting the energy requirements and Gas Cost Reduction.

E.   Multiplication

Although all the Commentaries are to the extent of the Subscribed IDs only, however, your Goodself is allowed to share this PGEC (with trail) for the Noble Cause to Impart Knowledge, in order to reduce Gas Bills of your Entity, Home, etc leading and take-up the matters with Government via Associations to speed up TAPI work and constantly monitor the Progress.

F.   Further Details & Services

Should you require any clarification or explanations in respect of the above or otherwise, please feel free to email Mr Amsal at amsal@786tax.com with CC to info.kasbati@professional-excellence.com.