Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, June 10 / Trend H. Hasanov /
Turkmen gas plays an important role for Europe, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Keith Allan, said today in an interview with Neutral Turkmenistan.
"We look forward to when gas begins to flow to the west - to Europe", the diplomat said.
This appeal is timed to UK Queen's birthday celebrated June 10.
"I welcome the recent decision of Turkmenistan to build a new pipeline (East-West), which connects the gas fields of southern Eloten with the coast of the Caspian Sea", Allan said.
The pipeline may increase the prospects of transporting of Turkmen gas to European market, in particular through the Caspian Sea. This site may become a part of a large-scale transnational Nabucco pipeline project, promoted by the EU.
British ambassador said that British business, in particular, Shell, BP pay interest in the country's fuel and energy complex.
The company Petrofac, based in Great Britain and the UAE and operating on the gas fields of south Eloten is represented on the market.
British diplomat stressed "great attractiveness" of Turkmen policy to diversify export routes for natural gas on the world market.
"Turkmenistan is making its invaluable contribution to the formation of an international legal framework. In particular, it is the initiator to develop an instrument of global significance in the energy sector and secure transit of energy resources", the diplomat said.
His Royal Highness the Duke of York, UK's Special Representative for International Trade and Investment, as well as former UK energy minister Lord Hunt visited Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan and Great Britain signed a protocol of intentions in the energy sector.
Such companies as JCB, the Royal Mint, and De La Rue show huge interest in other sectors of Turkmen economy. They have long and prosperous relationship.
"These and other companies seek to develop a mutually beneficial partnership between Turkmenistan and Great Britain", the diplomat said.
Allan said that Turkmenistan continues to play an important role in international and regional issues, including the provision of Afghani people with humanitarian aid. "Great Britain acknowledges this valuable contribution," he added.
"I also adhere to a very serious position of His Excellency Turkmen President [Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov] on the need to combat drug trafficking. This is a global problem that requires appropriate response. Great Britain cooperates with Turkmenistan and other partners in solving this problem," Allan said.
"I also participated in the meeting of the Council of Elders in Dashoguz in May. I has witnessed the approval of legislative acts, as well as the proposal of the Turkmen President on the preparation of a draft law on establishing new political parties by the Parliament. We welcome all these changes," the diplomat said.