The Government of Afghanistan intends to soon begin construction of its portion of the TAPI (Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India) gas pipeline.
Once the project is operational, the Taliban, which has come to power in the country, expects to earn $450 million annually from the transit of "blue fuel." These forecasts were presented by the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the current Government of Afghanistan, Khan Muttaqi, reports ToloNews.
The official added that in addition to the profit from transporting resources through its territory, Afghanistan will receive 5 billion cubic meters of gas annually.
The Foreign Minister named Turkmenistan as the country’s key economic partner, emphasizing that, along with Turkmenistan, several other major initiatives are being implemented, including TAPI, CASA-1000, and the construction of railways.
Regarding the construction of TAPI, Muttaqi stated that both countries are ready to proceed with the project.
"For the work to continue, it is necessary to sign legal documents between the countries," noted the Taliban representative.
He also explained that, according to experts, the TAPI pipeline will transport up to 33 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually. Of this volume, 5 billion cubic meters will remain in Afghanistan, while Pakistan and India will each receive 14 billion cubic meters. According to the diplomat, the construction of the pipeline will play a significant role in the economic development of all the project's participants.
The TAPI gas pipeline will span 1,840 kilometers. The construction of the 214-kilometer section on Turkmenistan’s territory has already been completed. Next in line is the laying of pipes through Afghanistan. The total cost of the project is estimated at $10 billion.
CentralasianLIGHT,
August 28, 2024