The National Iranian Gas Company is increasing efforts to attract foreign investment and expand energy ties with neighboring countries, with a high-ranking official stating that closer cooperation with Turkmenistan could pave the way for broader regional gas trade.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 29th Iran International Oil, Gas, Refining and Petrochemical Exhibition in Tehran, Saeed Tavakoli, Managing Director of the National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC), said that the country is seeking long-term contracts and deeper engagement with its neighbors, particularly Turkmenistan.

“The emphasis of the President and the Minister of Petroleum on strong regional ties demonstrates our intention to achieve concrete results through negotiations and mutual cooperation” said Tavakoli after a meeting with the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Iran, Ilyas Gayypov.

Tavakoli added that building energy links with Ashgabat could lay the groundwork for wider cooperation in various sectors. “Gas cooperation between Iran and Turkmenistan is a prelude to regional gas trade, and we hope to see its continuation and expansion”.

He also noted that gas swap agreements are already being implemented, and Iran is prepared to receive natural gas at the Sarahs border crossing in northeastern Iran, according to the Tehran Times on Friday.