The National Leader of Turkmen People, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, on Tuesday endorsed the launch of the next stage of the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline, extending the project to Afghanistan’s Herat province. The new segment, which is part of the pipeline running from Serhetabat to Herat, is known as “Arkadagyň Ak ýoly” or “Arkadag’s White Road.”

Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, built on initiatives first set out by Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and continued under President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, focuses on strengthening regional cooperation through mutual benefit and good neighborly relations.

Turkmenistan and Afghanistan have been carrying out large-scale joint projects in transport, communications and energy. Officials say the projects are aimed at supporting Afghanistan’s social and economic recovery and helping the country integrate into the global economy.

The launch of the new segment of TAPI running from Serhetabat to Herat, October 20, 2025 (Photo: dpmea.gov.af)

In September 2024, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov attended the opening of a 177-meter steel railway bridge on the Turkmen-Afghan border along the Serhetabat–Turgundi line. The ceremony also marked the start of construction of the Serhetabat–Herat section of the TAPI pipeline and an optical fiber line along the same route. Together, these initiatives are branded as “Arkadagyň Ak ýoly.” 

Other projects launched at the same time last year included a warehouse complex at the dry port of the Turgundi railway station, the first phase of the Turgundi–Herat railway, and the Nur-el-Jahad power plant in Herat province. These efforts are part of the first stage of the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan (TAP) power transmission line.

Turkmenistan, which maintains a neutral foreign policy, is committed to supporting peace, stability and development in Afghanistan.