Azernews.Az

By Aynur Karimova

Turkmenistan, an energy-rich Central Asian nation with huge hydrocarbon reserves, discovered two new gas fields near the giant Galkynysh field.

The Turkmen Geology State Corporation reported that new gas fields - Garakel and Bagli - were discovered as a result of the search-exploration operations in 2015.

"The discovery of these fields testifies to an increase in the proven reserves of natural gas in the Galkynysh super-giant oil field," the corporation said.

The reserves of Galkynysh field together with Yashlar and Garakel deposits are estimated at 27.4 trillion cubic meters.

The corporation further added that the plan on growth of natural gas reserves was fulfilled at 132 percent in the country in 2015.

In total, the search-exploration operations were carried out at 32 oil and gas areas and fields in 2015. Moreover, some 35 exploratory oil and gas wells were drilled.

The Turkmen Geology has set a priority for its experts in 2016 to search and explore liquid hydrocarbons and natural gas, not containing hydrogen sulphide and carbonic gas.

Turkmenistan, which has the fourth largest proven gas reserves in the world, is actively implementing an energy strategy aimed at increasing exports of the blue fuel and diversifying its supply routes to the largest global markets, where the demand for energy resources is growing.

Being one of the key players in the gas market of the Caspian Sea region and Central Asia, Turkmenistan produces about 70-80 billion cubic meters of gas a year. It possesses some 17 trillion cubic meters of natural gas, with some estimates placing that figure upwards of 25 or 26 trillion cubic meters.

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Aynur Karimova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Aynur_Karimova

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