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The Islamic Development Bank (IDB) shows interest in the large-scale construction project of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline, the Turkmen government said in a message Apr. 16.

This issue was discussed at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan.

In particular, Turkmen deputy prime minister, minister of foreign affairs Rashid Meredov, stated about the results of the Turkmen delegation's participation in the 13th Summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which recently took place in Istanbul.

It was emphasized that the international importance of major infrastructure projects initiated by Ashgabat was mentioned at the OIC summit, including the construction project of the TAPI gas pipeline, the implementation of which will give a powerful impetus to economic development of the region, contribute to strengthening peace and stability, solving important social problems.

"The OIC partners, including such a reputable financial institution, as the IDB, shows great interest in this large-scale project, which aims to become a true bridge of friendship and equal fruitful partnership among states and peoples," the message said.

In December 2015 it was reported that President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhammadov invited the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) to participate in Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline project.

The president made the invitation during the meeting with the IDB Group President Ahmad Mohamed Ali Al Madani, who arrived in the Turkmen capital to participate in celebrations on the occasion of the Neutrality Day of Turkmenistan.

The main document for the TAPI, called the Ashgabat Interstate Agreement, was signed in 2010.

The groundbreaking ceremony for TAPI's Turkmen section was held in mid-December of 2015.

The pipeline's length can reach 1,814 kilometers, including 214 kilometers running through Turkmenistan, 774 kilometers - Afghanistan and 826 kilometers - Pakistan.

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