Monitor

Iraqi PM, Turkmenistan president discuss trade and energy in a call

2025-03-05 | 19:37

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani held a phone call Wednesday with Turkmenistan’s President Serdar Berdimuhamedow to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, and energy, according to a statement from Al-Sudani’s media office.

During the conversation, Berdimuhamedow invited Al-Sudani to attend the International Forum for Peace in Ashgabat this December, where discussions will focus on “sustainable development” and “international cooperation.”

In October 2024, Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity signed an agreement with Turkmenistan to import up to 20 million cubic meters of gas per day to supply its power plants. The gas is planned to be transported through Iran’s pipeline network via a swap mechanism facilitated by the Switzerland-based company Loxstone Energy.

As of now, however, the status of the gas supply agreement between Iraq and Turkmenistan remains uncertain, with logistical and geopolitical factors influencing its potential execution. This agreement comes as U.S. pressure continues on Iraq to decrease its dependence on Iranian energy imports.

Statement from PM Al-Sudani’s media office:

Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani held a telephone discussion today, Wednesday, with the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedow.

The two leaders discussed ways to enhance cooperation and expand mutual interests between the two friendly nations, particularly in the areas of trade and economic relations. They also explored investment support and cooperation in energy projects, with a specific focus on gas, petroleum products, and renewable energy.

During the call, President Berdimuhamedow extended an invitation to Prime Minister Al-Sudani to attend the International Forum for Peace, scheduled to be held in Ashgabat in December this year. The forum will address key international issues, including sustainable development and international cooperation.