Iran and Turkmenistan Strengthen Ties: A New Strategic Partnership

According to SAEDNEWS,The friendly relationship between Iran and Turkmenistan is developing into a strategic partnership.

Turkmenistan as become the fourth stop for President Masoud Pezeshkian on his foreign tour, following visits to Iraq, the UN, and Qatar. This highlights the importance of Turkmenistan in Iran’s foreign policy.

President Pezeshkian is currently in Ashgabat to attend celebrations marking the 300th anniversary of the birth of Magtymguly Pyragy, an 18th-century poet and scholar who is honored in both countries.

Before leaving Tehran on Thursday, President Pezeshkian emphasized the long, secure border Iran shares with Turkmenistan. He also discussed the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), noting that it would greatly benefit both nations. The INSTC is a network of rail, sea, and road routes designed to enhance cargo movement between India, Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia, and Europe.

The main goals of the president's visit are to boost political and security relations, as well as strengthen economic ties between the two neighboring countries. A key aspect of this cooperation is Turkmenistan's support in helping Iran become a regional gas hub.

Turkmenistan has become a priority for Iran’s foreign policy in recent years. Former President Ebrahim Raeisi visited Turkmenistan on his second international trip, breaking a period of limited interactions under his predecessor.

The relationship is vital for Iran for several reasons. First, Turkmenistan is an immediate neighbor, making it a priority in Iranian foreign policy. Second, it is the only neighboring country with little to no security threats, which is crucial in a region often marked by tension. Lastly, the growing economic interdependence in energy, transportation, and trade is aligning the two nations strategically.

Last month, Turkmenistan’s National Leader Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow made a high-profile visit to Tehran, where both countries signed a significant agreement to enhance cooperation in gas swaps.

While Iran has the world's second-largest natural gas reserves and is the third-largest producer, it faces rising domestic demand and potential shortages during the winter. Turkmenistan, with its substantial gas reserves, struggles to ship its resources directly to global markets due to geographic limitations. Strengthening ties with Iran, which offers a strategic transit route, is essential for Turkmenistan.

In July, Iran and Turkmenistan signed a contract for the delivery of 10 billion cubic meters of Turkmen natural gas annually, which Iran will transport to Iraq. Turkmenistan's foreign ministry also mentioned plans to increase gas supplies to Iran to 40 billion cubic meters a year. Currently, Iraq is negotiating gas imports from Turkmenistan, with Iran serving as a key transit route.